In a move signaling reinforced governance, President Bola Tinubu announced the induction of 18 pivotal roles, comprised of Special Advisers and Senior Special Assistants, dedicated to Vice President Kashim Shettima. This strategic alignment seeks to promote and realize the federal government’s ambitions spanning various economic domains.

According to a report by This Day Live, The official statement from Olusola Abiola, the Director of Information in the vice president’s office, conveyed that the newly inducted team comprises six Special Advisers and 12 Senior Special Assistants. These experts will collaborate actively in the vice president’s office, aligning their expertise with the “Renewed Hope” vision charted out by the Tinubu administration.

Prominent among the appointees is Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, who assumes the role of Special Adviser on Political Matters. For context, he is the sibling of the Labour Party’s vice-presidential nominee from the recent February 25 general election, Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed.

Similarly, Rukaiya El-Rufai advises on NEC and Climate Change; Tope Kolade Fasua handles Economic Matters; Aliyu Modibbo Umar oversees General Duties; Jumoke Oduwole takes charge of PEBEC and Investment; and Sadiq Wanka concentrates on Power Infrastructure.

Further augmenting the team are the Senior Special Assistants, including Usman Mohammed for Administration and Office Coordination; Kingsley Stanley Nkwocha for Media and Communications; Ishaq Ahmed Ningi for Digital Media and Emergency Management; Peju Adebajo for Investment and Privatisation; Mohammed Bulama for Political/Special Duties, Kingsley Uzoma for Agribusiness and Productivity Enhancement, among others.

Baba-Ahmed, known as the Northern Elders Forum (NEF) spokesperson and a prominent figure from the Ninth Senate, confirmed his new role. Taking to the microblogging platform X, previously recognized as Twitter, he expressed gratitude for his appointment, emphasizing the significance of active involvement over passive observation.

He articulated, “Now, I publicly acknowledge my acceptance of the Special Adviser (Political) role to VP, @KShettim. This is an era demanding action over passive criticism. Serving the nation in this capacity is both an honour and a responsibility. I solicit your prayers for both my journey and our great nation.”

This fresh induction is a testament to President Tinubu’s intent to harness expertise, foster collaboration, and carve a progressive pathway for Nigeria’s economic and social betterment.