My past criticism of Tinubu driven by desire for a better Nigeria – Minister

The Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr Olatunbosun Tijani, has said his past criticism of political leaders, including President Bola Tinubu, was borne out of his desire for a better Nigeria.

Tijani, who made the remark on Monday, described Tinubu as a leader with the courage to tackle the country’s multifaceted challenges.

Speaking with journalists at the inauguration of a solar-powered community ICT centre in Abeokuta, facilitated by the National Information Technology Development Agency, the minister said his decision to serve under Tinubu was driven by his belief in the President’s leadership.

Tijani stated, “It was not about how easy, it was about intention, because leadership is about intentions.

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“When you come close to President Bola Tinubu, you will know that Nigeria is fortunate to have someone like him. Let’s leave politics aside and examine the development trajectory under his administration.

“This is the first president who has made it easier for every young Nigerian to access education, regardless of their background, through the student loan scheme.

“This is also the president who removed the fuel subsidy, a long-standing burden on Nigerians, and is now redirecting those resources to national development.

“He has significantly reduced the country’s debt servicing obligations, freeing up funds for critical projects.

“So, for me, it was not difficult to accept to work under such a man. I wasn’t critical of past governments because I was a politician but because I wanted a better society. And there is no better person to work with to achieve that than President Bola Tinubu.”

Tijani’s remarks come after Senate President Godswill Akpabio, during a special Iftar marking Tinubu’s 73rd birthday at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, recalled that the minister’s nomination was met with strong resistance due to his previous criticisms of the government.

The minister was said to have previously labelled lawmakers “morons,” sparking controversy during his Senate screening.

Akpabio, however, stated that the Senate confirmed Tijani’s appointment, trusting Tinubu’s judgment.

“Mr. President, we confirmed him because we knew you must have seen something special in him. You are never wrong when it comes to your judgment of people,” Akpabio was quoted as saying.

“I went into an executive session and told my colleagues, ‘Let us give this young man an opportunity and see what happens.’”

Similarly, Tinubu recounted how his decision to appoint Tijani faced strong opposition from close associates due to the minister’s past critical statements on social media.

Despite the objections, the President said he stood by his decision, recognising Tijani’s talent and potential contributions.

“Because he criticises me does not mean he has nothing to offer,” Tinubu stated.

The President argued that Tijani’s vocal dissatisfaction in the past could translate into a stronger commitment to public service.

“When I picked him, it was tough. My close confidantes, who had read his comments on social media, objected, saying, ‘No, never.’

“I said, ‘Yes, he is talented. Because he criticises me and pours abuse on the parliament 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 added.