The appointment of Nigeria’s former permanent representative to the United Nations (UN), Professor Ibrahim Gambari as the new Chief of Staff to President Muhammadu Buhari is quite befitting.
According to the Buhari Media Organisation BMO, in a statement signed by its Chairman Niyi Akinsiju and Secretary Cassidy Madueke, the President deserves commendation for his choice of another man with a global reputation as his Chief of Staff.
“We acknowledge that the choice of the international diplomat and strategist to replace the late Malam Abba Kyari may have taken so many Nigerians by surprise.
“This is against the background of wide speculations since the death of the former Chief of Staff on the likely occupant of the seat.
“But the President has again proved that he is his own man with the choice of a largely apolitical personality with an international reputation as his key aide.
“As with late Malam Kyari, President Buhari has had a long-standing relationship with his new Chief of Staff who was also the Minister of External Affairs at the time the President was military Head of State in 1983, so he has a good knowledge of Gambari’s pedigree.
“We have no doubt that Professor Gambari will bring a lot of administrative experience and acumen, not different from that of the late Malam Kyari, to bear on his new role”, the statement added.
The group also highlighted the antecedents of the new Chief of Staff that make him suitable for the job.
“Professor Gambari is bringing to the job a wealth of experience stretching back to his days as a respected scholar, former minister and an international diplomat of repute, as well as past roles as Under-Secretary-General of the United Nations and Chairman, African Union-UN Special Representative for Darfur.
“We recall that he is also the go-to man at the international stage over conflict resolution in places like Myanmar and Iraq, amongst others.
“So as a global citizen, we believe he will add his international network to the President’s reputation as one of Africa’s most reliable leaders. On the local scene, his professional and administrative experience, as well as extensive contacts, will help maintain the legacy of good governance that President Buhari is bequeathing to Nigeria.
“Gambari’s loyalty to any cause he believes in will also stand him in good stead with a President that is consistent in using that value, as well as shared vision as part of his criteria in picking his personal staff”.
BMO added that Professor Gambari’s appointment as Chief of Staff emphasizes the determination of President Buhari to always pick the best available, and urged top government officials and all Nigerians to fully cooperate with him
