Examining Gov. Yusuf’s 406 Appointments: A Call for Responsible Governance by Adnan Mukhtar
NEWS DIGEST – Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State recently made headlines by appointing an additional 116 aides, comprising 63 Senior Special Assistants, 41 Special Assistants, and 12 Personal Assistants. The governor’s aim was to enhance youth involvement in his administration, a commendable goal in principle. However, the focus should be on the quality of appointments rather than sheer quantity.
As a youth advocate who actively participated in electoral processes in 2019 and 2022, I strongly emphasize the significance of integrating youth into governance. The post-election neglect faced by many young individuals, coupled with challenges like political violence, unemployment, and lack of basic amenities, underscores the importance of empowering the youth through responsible government engagement.
My critique is not new. In the past, I expressed concerns over Governor Ganduje’s excessive appointments, emphasizing the necessity of appointing competent individuals based on merit and experience, rather than political recompense. Unfortunately, the recent wave of appointments by Governor Yusuf reflects a similar trend.
One critical issue lies in the allocation of portfolios to these appointees. Appointing Senior Special Assistants to positions equivalent to a Deputy Director in the civil service without due experience or qualifications is a disservice to both governance and the public. Furthermore, some appointees lack access to necessary resources and information, indicating a mere inclusion on the payroll rather than a focus on delivering tangible results.
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Governor Nasir El-Rufai’s approach to appointments sets a positive example. By incorporating a balance of politicians, professionals, and technocrats into his administration, he has demonstrated the potential of harnessing diverse skill sets for effective governance. Key positions held by individuals with proven expertise and experience, such as Hadiza Bala Usman, further validate the merits of this approach.
Governor Yusuf’s recent appointments, however, raise concerns regarding the appropriateness of certain portfolios, such as Special Assistant Radio/Women and SSA Carpentry. Rather than creating redundant roles, the government should streamline appointments to focus on essential areas like vocational skills and youth mobilization, thus reducing the burden on public finances.
In addressing the challenge of youth unemployment and fostering sustainable growth, I propose a shift in focus. The government should prioritize providing unhindered access to education, job opportunities, capital, and skill development for young individuals. These initiatives would empower them to become self-reliant and contribute meaningfully to society, both during and after their engagement with government.
Furthermore, the recent order to pay 30 billion naira in compensation for the Eid ground demolition raises important questions about responsible governance and fiscal responsibility. The decision to use taxpayers’ money for compensations resulting from ill-advised actions warrants careful reconsideration of government priorities and accountability.
In conclusion, while advocating for youth inclusion in governance, the emphasis should be on quality over quantity in appointments. Creating meaningful opportunities for the youth outside of government roles is pivotal for their long-term development and the prosperity of our society. It’s crucial for leaders like Governor Yusuf to prioritize responsible governance, enabling young individuals to flourish and contribute meaningfully to the development of their communities.
Pen Might By Adnan Mukhtar is a compelling weekly column dedicated to shedding light on the significant role of youth in the realms of politics, governance, and a wide array of pressing issues.
