Tinubu: Why I Chose Bosun Tijani as Minister Even After His Criticism

President Bola Tinubu has explained why he appointed Bosun Tijani as Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy despite his past criticism. According to Tinubu, his decision reflects his belief in recognizing talent, even among those who once opposed him.

Tinubu’s Decision and the Iftar Event

The President spoke about this on Saturday night during a special Iftar at the Presidential Villa to celebrate his 73rd birthday. Tijani was among several dignitaries who gave goodwill messages at the event, alongside Vice President Kashim Shettima, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, Governor Hope Uzodinma, and Professor Shaffideen Adeniyi Amuwo, a childhood friend of Tinubu.

Tijani shared his experience of being appointed despite his past activism and criticisms of both the President and the National Assembly. He recalled his first meeting with Tinubu after his confirmation.

“Before my appointment, I had never met Mr. President. But after my confirmation, he told me, ‘I have looked at your records and activism, and I see something in you. I am giving you the opportunity to serve your country and make it better.’”

Tijani admitted he had expected a harsh reprimand due to his past statements. Instead, Tinubu’s response surprised him. “I thought I would get a proper scolding because of my records, but the President’s generosity was something I had never experienced before.”

He also recalled how some people tried to bring up his past comments during his meeting with Tinubu. “Some people brought out my records and told Mr. President, ‘He said this, he did that.’ But the President told them, ‘Shut it.’”

Tinubu’s Justification for the Appointment

Tinubu acknowledged that picking Tijani was not an easy decision. He faced opposition from close associates who had seen Tijani’s critical comments online.

“When I picked him, it was tough. My close confidantes, who had read his comments on social media, came to me and said, ‘No, never.’ I said, ‘Yes, he is talented. Just because he criticizes me and speaks against the parliament does not mean he has nothing to offer.’”

The President believed Tijani’s frustrations at the time could drive him to work harder in government. “Maybe his frustration back then will push him to contribute more now. And today, he is doing just that, and I am very proud of him.”

Senate’s Initial Resistance and Final Approval

Senate President Godswill Akpabio also shared insights into the tense debate surrounding Tijani’s ministerial confirmation. He recalled that senators initially opposed his nomination, citing past remarks where Tijani had referred to Nigerian lawmakers as “morons.”

“When he came for screening, senators said, ‘No, we can’t have him.’ One senator even read from the internet where Tijani had insulted the Senate. I had to stop proceedings and ask him, ‘Did you write this?’ He admitted, ‘Sir, I did, because that was how I felt then.’”

Akpabio said the Senate eventually confirmed Tijani out of trust in Tinubu’s judgment. “Mr. President, we approved him because we knew you must have seen something special in him. You are never wrong when it comes to judging people.”

The Senate President also noted that Tijani had since proven himself as a top-performing minister. “I told my colleagues, ‘Let’s give this young man an opportunity and see what happens.’ Today, I am happy to say he is one of the best ministers in the cabinet.”