Presidential Spokesman Debunks Hadiza Bala Usman SGF Appointment Rumours
Rumours of a major shake-up at the highest echelons of President Bola Tinubu's administration were swiftly doused on Friday evening as the Presidency emphatically debunked reports suggesting a new appointment for Dr. Hadiza Bala Usman. Social media platforms and some online news outlets had been awash with speculation, but the official word from Aso Rock is clear: it's "untrue" and "fake news."
The circulating reports had specifically claimed that Dr. Hadiza Bala Usman, a prominent figure in the All Progressives Congress (APC), had been appointed the new Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), replacing Senator George Akume. This purported reshuffle was further linked to the recent resignation of Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje as the National Chairman of the APC, with the rumours suggesting Senator Akume would take over the party's top job.
However, in a definitive statement, Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, categorically stated that Senator George Akume remains the duly appointed SGF. Onanuga further clarified that President Bola Tinubu has not made any new appointments, especially while he is currently out of the country on official engagements in Saint Lucia.
For the record, Dr. Hadiza Bala Usman's current and confirmed role within the Tinubu administration is Special Adviser on Policy and Coordination, Central Delivery Coordination Unit (CDCU). She was appointed to this crucial position by President Tinubu in June 2023.
Dr. Bala Usman boasts an impressive and often impactful career in public service and politics. Her notable previous roles include:
Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) from 2016 to 2021, a tenure that saw significant reforms and also generated considerable public discussion, eventually leading to her suspension from the role.
Chief of Staff to the Governor of Kaduna State from 2015 to 2016, making her the first woman to ever hold that esteemed position in the state.
A courageous co-founder of the globally recognized "Bring Back Our Girls" campaign, advocating for the return of abducted Chibok schoolgirls.
A committed founding member of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
She also played a crucial role as the Deputy Director-General Administration of the Tinubu/Shettima APC Presidential Campaign Council during the successful 2023 presidential election.
The recent flurry of reports regarding her alleged new appointment as SGF appears to be a classic case of unverified speculation and fabricated information, likely fanned by the recent developments within the APC's leadership. The Presidency has acted swiftly to quell these rumours, reaffirming the stability of the current cabinet and the leadership of Senator George Akume as SGF.
