By Mahdi Waziri Isa
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has made a significant move to expand his political influence by appointing Alhaji Yusuf Hamisu Abubakar, popularly known as “Mairago”, as the Chairman of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA). This development is seen as a strategic effort to win over strong and resourceful political allies of Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, a veteran presidential aspirant.
Mairago’s appointment is a significant coup for Tinubu, as he was once a reliable ally of Atiku Abubakar. His defection to Tinubu’s camp is a clear indication of the president’s growing influence and his ability to lure key political figures away from his opponents. This move is likely to have far-reaching implications for the political landscape in Nigeria.
Tinubu’s strategy of offering key appointments to influential political figures is a clever tactic to expand his support base. By doing so, he is not only gaining the loyalty of these individuals but also weakening his opponents’ strongholds. This approach has already yielded results, with several high-profile covert and overt defections to Tinubu’s camp in recent months.
Mairago’s experience and leadership skills make him an ideal candidate for the position of NIMASA Chairman. As the pioneer Executive Secretary of the Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF), he played a crucial role in shaping the organization’s mandate and operations. His appointment is expected to bring value to NIMASA and enhance the agency’s performance.
Tinubu’s appointment of Mairago is also seen as a move to reward loyalty and strengthen his party’s grip on power. By offering key positions to influential politicians, Tinubu is creating a network of loyal supporters who will help him achieve his political objectives.
The implications of Tinubu’s strategy are far-reaching, and it remains to be seen how his opponents will respond. One thing is certain, however: Tinubu’s move has sent a clear message that he is determined to win the 2027 election by popular and unprecedented margin
As strategies to mobilize support towards 2027 general elections thickens,: Tinubu’s strategy of offering key appointments to influential politicians continues to generate debate. While some see it as a strategy that will give the President a good edge over his emerging rivals, some say the approach is not likely to work in view of the growing hardship faced by Nigerians, as a result of his excruciating economic policies
Not few politicians see Tinubu’s appointment of ‘Mairago’ as NIMASA Chairman as a strategic move that is aimed at decimating the former Vice President’s following, a move that underscores President Tinubu’s growing influence in Nigerian politics, more so that he continues to expand his support base.
With these kinds of appointments, Tinubu’s opponents will need to rethink their strategies to remain relevant in the ever-changing political landscape.