Babachir Lawal, a former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), has expressed his disapproval of President Bola Tinubu’s leadership style in Nigeria. In a conversation with TheCable, Lawal revealed that he had foreseen the disastrous consequences of Tinubu’s decision to appoint Yemi Cardoso as the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).
Lawal argued that leadership positions should not be filled based on personal relationships or loyalty. He pointed out that Cardoso’s experience of managing a minor ministry in Lagos does not qualify him to oversee the country’s economy.
Lawal stated, “I feel vindicated, but it’s not a matter of pride to foresee a disaster and then witness it unfold. I knew this would happen, which is why I voiced my concerns at the time. You can’t just appoint someone because they’re your friend or loyal to you. Nigeria is not Lagos. Running a small ministry in Lagos doesn’t equip you to manage the country’s economy. Nigeria is a complex entity.
“Nigeria’s economy doesn’t typically adhere to standard economic principles—issues like demand and supply that are outlined in textbooks. The functioning of Nigeria is entirely distinct from textbook economics.
“For instance, as a businessman, you might bid on a project, deliver an excellent presentation, and expect to win the contract because of your superior proposal. However, the project owners might award it to their girlfriends. The operation of Nigeria’s economy is unlike that of other countries. Our economy is intricate, and we need leaders who truly understand Nigeria. We need leaders who recognize that Lagos state is different from Enugu, Borno, Anambra, Sokoto, and Adamawa.
“Tinubu’s appointment of Cardoso did not demonstrate this understanding of the country, and he is now facing the repercussions.”
