‘Inclusive governance’ — northern group hails Tinubu for appointing Christians into cabinet

A group known as All Christian Youths in Northern Nigeria (ACYNN) has commended President Bola Tinubu for his “incredible leadership style, centred on ingenuity and inclusiveness”.

In a letter signed by Dominic Alancha, ACYNN national president, the group said the appointment of Christians by Tinubu into his cabinet shows the president is “free from the divisive politics often seen in the Nigerian political arena”.

The group added that the appointment of George Akume as secretary to the government of the federation (SGF) and Christopher Musa as chief of defence staff was a “significant step towards inclusivity.

The organisation noted that the action of the president has granted a voice to the “marginalised, neglected, and often forgotten Christian minorities in northern Nigeria, especially those from the Middle-belt”.

“We have been profoundly impressed by your administration’s extraordinary efforts in appointing Northern Christians to pivotal political roles,” the letter reads.

“This signifies a significant step towards inclusivity, granting a voice to marginalised, neglected, and often forgotten Christian minorities in Northern Nigeria especially those from the Middle-Belt.

“At a point, we questioned whether we were recognised as Nigerian citizens with a stake in our beloved country at all.

“However, your swift and unprecedented appointments, such as naming His Excellency Senator George Akume from Benue State as Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), have not only surprised us but also resonated with many well-intentioned Nigerians.

“This marks a historic moment in Nigeria’s history, and for this, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to you, Mr. President.

“Your Excellency, you have also appointed General Christopher Gwabin Musa as the 18th Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) on the 19th of June, an exemplary choice who happens to be a Northern Christian from Zangon Kataf in Kaduna State.

“This appointment is a testament to your leadership style, free from the divisive politics often seen in the Nigerian political arena.

“You govern with remarkable ingenuity and inclusiveness, uniting all Nigerians as one united nation. We wholeheartedly appreciate your approach, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

“As Northern Christians, we initially had reservations about the Muslim-Muslim ticket of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Ibrahim Shettima. Yet, your inclusive governance has impressed us greatly.”