- Why Tinubu Chose Fani-Kayode, Omokri, and Yakubu for Ambassadorial Roles – Presidency
- Oshodi emphasised that appointments often generate both support and opposition
- Says some countries and situations require specific skills and attributes
Demola Oshodi, Senior Special Assistant (Protocol) to President Bola Tinubu, has provided insight into why prominent figures such as former INEC Chairman Mahmood Yakubu, former Aviation Minister Femi Fani-Kayode, and former presidential aide Reno Omokri were included in the recent ambassadorial nominations.
Eko Hot Blog reports that President Tinubu last week forwarded a list of ambassadorial nominees to the National Assembly for screening and confirmation. The inclusion of high-profile personalities has sparked public debate, with some Nigerians questioning the suitability of Fani-Kayode and Omokri for such roles.
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Speaking on Arise News – The Morning Show, Oshodi emphasised that appointments often generate both support and opposition. He highlighted the importance of maintaining balance in selections and urged Nigerians to trust the President’s judgment.
“We voted for him. We give him the right to choose his executives, so we have to trust his judgment,” Oshodi said.
Regarding the controversial nominations, Oshodi explained that appointments consider multiple factors, including career experience, loyalty, national service, and the need to maintain ethnic and state balance.
On Mahmood Yakubu, he said:
“We can look at the professor’s years of career. He’s been in charge of Nigeria’s electoral body for many years, overseeing the 2019 and 2023 elections, which were generally well-managed. These non-career diplomats are political appointees; their first priority is loyalty. They have been loyal to the administration and understand its vision.”
Clarifying the nature of Yakubu’s loyalty, Oshodi added:
“No, it’s the criteria of national service. There are multiple reasons why the President made his judgment, including exemplary national service, ethnic and state balance, and competence. Loyalty is just one factor among others.”
On Fani-Kayode, Oshodi remarked:
“The President’s decision on appointing ambassadors and high commissioners is based on competence and capacity. Some countries and situations require specific skills and attributes, and we believe the President has assessed these carefully. Mr. Fani-Kayode has served the country in various capacities. Being divisive does not eliminate him from serving further. The President considers national service and competence in making these appointments.”
