Nigeria’s new President, Bola Tinubu, has chosen a prominent banker and a former anti-corruption advocate to serve as key advisers in his administration. This decision is aimed at implementing vital reforms in Africa’s largest economy.
Among the eight individuals appointed as special presidential advisers on Thursday, Olawale Edun stands out as an economist with expertise in merchant banking, corporate finance, and international finance. Edun will provide guidance on monetary policy. Nuhu Ribadu, the former head of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), known for his anti-graft efforts, will offer his counsel on security matters.
The swift selection process for the president’s team has been met with relief by many Nigerians. In contrast, the previous president, Muhammadu Buhari, earned the nickname “Baba-go-slow” for taking up to six months to finalize appointments during his tenure eight years ago.
These special advisers, who often possess technical expertise, hold positions within the president’s cabinet. However, unlike ministers, they do not have specific ministerial portfolios.
