President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the appointment of Jamiu Abiola as the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Linguistics and Foreign Matters. This appointment takes effect from November 14, 2024, as confirmed by Segun Imohiosen, Director of Information and Public Relations in the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation.
Jamiu Abiola is the son of the late Chief Moshood Abiola, the winner of the annulled 1993 presidential election under General Ibrahim Babangida’s regime. Before this new role, Abiola served as the Special Assistant to the President on Special Duties in the Office of the Vice-President.
According to Imohiosen, “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the appointment of Jamiu Abiola as the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Linguistics and Foreign Matters.” He added that the appointment is in line with the provisions of the Certain Political and Judicial Office Holders (Salaries and Allowances, etc) Act 2008, as amended.
Abiola’s new role is expected to leverage his expertise in linguistics and foreign matters. President Tinubu has urged him to collaborate closely with the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs to excel in his new responsibilities.
This appointment is seen as a significant move by President Tinubu to strengthen his administration’s foreign policy and linguistic capabilities. Abiola’s experience and expertise in these areas are expected to be valuable assets to the administration.
As the son of the late Chief Moshood Abiola, Jamiu Abiola’s appointment is also seen as a nod to his family’s legacy and contributions to Nigeria’s democracy. His father’s annulled presidential election victory in 1993 remains a significant event in Nigeria’s history.
In a related development, President Tinubu has also been commended for his efforts in recognizing and rewarding the contributions of notable Nigerians and their families. Abiola’s appointment is seen as part of this effort.
It is worth noting that Jamiu Abiola has expressed his gratitude to President Tinubu for the appointment, stating that Tinubu is the only President who has appointed any member of his family to work in the presidency.
Abiola’s appointment has been welcomed by many Nigerians, who see it as a positive move by President Tinubu to strengthen his administration’s capabilities and recognize the contributions of notable Nigerians.