President Bola Tinubu has defended his decision to appoint Dr Bosun Tijani as Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, emphasizing his commitment to recognizing talent, even among past critics.
Speaking at a special Iftar at the Presidential Villa in Abuja to mark his 73rd birthday, Tinubu acknowledged that selecting Tijani was a challenging decision, given the concerns raised by close associates over the minister’s past criticisms.
“When I picked him, it was tough. My very close confidantes, who had read his comments on social media, came to me and said, ‘No, never.’ I said, ‘Yes, he is talented. Because he criticises me and pours abuses on the parliament, it does not mean he has nothing to offer.
“Maybe his frustration at that time will drive him to contribute more to governance. And today, he is doing that, and I am very proud of him,” Tinubu stated.
Tijani, reflecting on his appointment, shared how he had never met Tinubu before being nominated and expected to face a reprimand for his past activism and criticisms.
“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 have seen there is something in you. I am allowing you to represent your country and contribute to making it a better place.’
“I was expecting a proper scolding because of my records, but the magnanimity of the President is one that I experienced for the very first time in my life.
“I remember that in that meeting, some people brought out my record again and told Mr. President, ‘He said this, he did this.’ But the President said, ‘Shut it,’” Tijani recounted.
Among those who delivered goodwill messages at the event were Vice President Kashim Shettima, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Benjamin Kalu, Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo State, and Professor Shaffideen Adeniyi Amuwo, a childhood friend of Tinubu.
