President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has appointed a significant number of Yoruba leaders to key ministerial positions and government agencies. This move, characterized as an “unapologetic Yorubanization” of the federal government, has sparked debate among political analysts and the general public.
Currently, prominent ministries such as Finance, Education, Trade and Industry, and Petroleum are headed by individuals of Yoruba descent. Key agencies including the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), and the Department of State Services (DSS) are also led by Yoruba officials.
Critics argue that this concentration of power within one ethnic group undermines the principles of inclusivity and diversity in governance. They raise concerns about the potential marginalization of other ethnic groups, particularly in a nation as diverse as Nigeria. Supporters, however, contend that Tinubu’s appointments reflect a strategic alignment of leadership that may foster cohesion within the Yoruba political landscape.
Furthermore, the influence of Yoruba leaders extends to critical committees in the National Assembly. The Senate Leader and chairs of key committees on Appropriation, Banking and Financial Institutions, and Marine Transport are all held by Yoruba representatives. This control over legislative processes could significantly impact policymaking and budget allocations, raising questions about regional equity in governance.
Political analysts are divided on the long-term implications of this trend. Some believe it could lead to a more focused and cohesive approach to governance within the Yoruba region, while others warn it may exacerbate ethnic tensions and lead to calls for greater representation from other regions.
The following Ministerial offices and Heads of Agencies Appointed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and currently being headed by the Yorubas:
- Minister of Finance
- Minister of Education
- Minister of Trade and Industry
- Minister of Petroleum
- Minister of Marine & Blue Economy
- Minister of Power
- Minister of Justice
- Minister of Communications
- Minister of Interior
- Minister of Solid Minerals
- EFCC
- CBN
- BOI
- FIRS
- NIRSAL
- DG DSS
- Chief of Army staff
- CG Customs
- CG Immigration
- Chief of Defence Intelligence
- Perm Sec State House
- Comdnt Guards Brigade
- IGP
- DG BPE
- DG BPP
- Chief of Staff
- Accountant General of the Federation
- Head of Service of the Federation
- FCCPC
- NEPA
- NIMASA
- NSITF
- PENCOM
- AMCON
- NPHCDA
- NAFDAC
- NiDCOM,
- NOA,
- NEPZA,
In addition to that, the following Yoruba’s are holding sensitive Committees at the National Assembly: - Senate Leader
- Senate Committee on Appropriation,
- Senate Committee on Banking & Financial Institutions,
- Senate Committee on Industries
- Senate Committee on Marine Transport
- House Committee Chairman on Finance
- House Committee on Customs
As the Tinubu administration continues to shape its policies, the question remains: Will this ethnic concentration strengthen Nigeria’s governance or deepen divisions among its diverse populace?
