President Bola Tinubu has shed light on his decision to appoint Dr. Bosun Tijani as Nigeria’s Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, despite the tech entrepreneur’s history of public criticism against him and the National Assembly. Tinubu revealed that the move was driven by his belief in recognizing talent and prioritizing contributions to national development over past disagreements.
Speaking during a special Iftar held at the Presidential Villa to celebrate his 73rd birthday, Tinubu acknowledged that nominating Tijani was a tough decision, especially amid pushback from close associates and members of his political party. “When I picked him, it was tough. My very close confidante, who had read his comments on social media, came to me and said, ‘No, never.’ But I said, ‘Yes, he is talented. Just because he criticizes me and the parliament doesn’t mean he has nothing to offer,’” Tinubu explained.
The President added that he saw potential in Tijani’s record as an activist and believed that his past frustrations could drive him to make meaningful contributions to governance. “Today, he is doing that, and I am very proud of him,” Tinubu stated.
Dr. Bosun Tijani’s nomination in 2023 stirred controversy due to his outspoken criticism of the All Progressives Congress (APC) government on social media. During his Senate screening, lawmakers raised concerns about his past remarks, including tweets where he referred to Nigerian senators as “morons.” Senate President Godswill Akpabio recounted the heated debate during the screening process, noting that senators initially opposed confirming Tijani.
“When he came for screening, senators said, ‘No, we can’t have him.’ One senator quoted from the internet where he described all Nigerian senators as ‘morons.’ I had to stop proceedings and ask, ‘Did you write this?’ He admitted, ‘Yes, because that was how I felt then,’” Akpabio shared. Despite the backlash, the Senate ultimately confirmed Tijani based on trust in Tinubu’s judgment.
Reflecting on his appointment, Tijani expressed surprise at Tinubu’s magnanimity.
“Before my appointment, I had never met Mr. President,” he revealed. “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 giving you the opportunity to represent your country and contribute to making it a better place.’”
Since assuming office, Tijani has focused on advancing Nigeria’s digital economy by leveraging his extensive experience in technology and innovation. His plans include training over one million Nigerians in digital skills by 2027 and fostering collaboration between the government and tech innovators to position Nigeria as a global leader in technology.
Tijani’s appointment highlights Tinubu’s willingness to prioritize merit over political loyalty, a decision that has already begun yielding results. As Senate President Akpabio remarked during the Iftar event: “Today, I’m happy to say he is one of the best-performing ministers in the cabinet.”
Despite initial resistance from party loyalists and lawmakers, Tijani’s performance has earned praise across political divides.
