8 February, 2024
The Society for the Welfare of Unemployed Youths of Nigeria (SWUYN) strongly condemns the recent appointments made by the President Tinubu government, where many appointees are family members of politicians, senators and governors. This blatant nepotism is a clear indication that the government has turned appointments and governance into family affairs, disregarding competence and credibility.
SWUYN is deeply concern over the pervasive nepotism, cronyism, ethnicity, and tribalism that has infiltrated our government’s appointment, and empowerment process and governance. The blatant consideration of ethnicity and tribalism in appointments and employment, are clear indications of the entrenched nepotism and cronyism that threatens to undermine the very fabric of our society.
We are particularly concerned about the nominations of Asiya Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, daughter of Kano State Governor Abdullahi Ganderson as Director of Community & Rural Development, and the son of Senator Aliyu Wamakko, as head of the Planning, Research, Statistics, and Management Information System Department in the North-West Development Commission. These appointments are unacceptable and perpetuate the cycle of poverty and unemployment.
Similarly, we have seen numerous instances of family members of politicians being appointed to boards, agencies, and commissions, without regard for merit or qualifications. For example, the sons and daughters of senators and governors have been appointed to key positions in agencies such as the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and others.
We demand an immediate end to this practice, which undermines the principles of fairness, equality, and justice. The government must prioritize competence and credibility over family ties and political connections. We urge the government to establish a transparent and merit-based appointment process, where candidates are selected based on their qualifications, skills, and experience, regardless of their ethnicity, tribe, or family background. The future of Nigeria depends on it.
We also call on the general public to join us in condemning this blatant nepotism and cronyism. Together, we can demand better from our government and ensure that opportunities are given to those who truly deserve them.
Let us rise up and demand a governance system that is fair, just, and equitable for all Nigerians. We owe it to ourselves, our children, and the future of our great nation.
SWUYN will continue to advocate for the rights of unemployed youths and marginalized groups, and we will not hesitate to take action against any government that prioritizes family interests over the welfare of its citizens.
Comr. Preye Tambou
National President, SWUYN
February 8, 2025
