Dr. Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, the political adviser to General Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has resigned from his position.
According to reliable sources within the presidency, Dr. Baba-Ahmed submitted his resignation approximately two weeks ago, although the reasons behind his decision remain unclear. He has cited “personal grounds” for stepping down, but it remains uncertain whether the presidency has officially accepted his resignation.
Dr. Baba-Ahmed’s Appointment and Public Engagements
Dr. Baba-Ahmed, who was appointed Special Adviser on Political Matters in the Office of Vice President Kashim Shettima in September 2023, represented the presidency at various public events, including the national conference on strengthening Nigeria’s democracy held in January 2025. His role involved active participation in critical discussions regarding the nation’s political integrity and governance.
Tensions with Minister Matawalle
During his tenure, Dr. Baba-Ahmed faced public criticism, notably from the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Mohammed Matawalle. In April 2024, Matawalle criticized Baba-Ahmed’s public remarks about the Northern Elders Forum (NEF), particularly after the group’s negative view of the 2023 election results. Baba-Ahmed had called out the minister for dismissing the NEF as politically irrelevant, suggesting that Matawalle should focus on promoting the achievements of northern appointees instead of attacking the group.
The Clash of Opinions
Matawalle responded sharply, asserting that government appointees, including Dr. Baba-Ahmed, had a duty to defend the administration. He emphasized that northern appointees should remain outspoken in supporting President Tinubu’s agenda and should not remain silent in the face of attacks on the government’s efforts.
Profile: Dr. Hakeem Baba-Ahmed
Dr. Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, born on September 11, 1955, is a seasoned Nigerian public servant and former Chief of Staff to ex-Senate President Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki. He hails from Kaduna State and has a distinguished career in public service. Dr. Baba-Ahmed earned his PhD from the University of Sussex and previously held senior positions in both federal and state civil services, including Permanent Secretary and Secretary to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Before his current role, Baba-Ahmed was the Director of Publicity and Advocacy for the Northern Elders Forum, advocating for the North’s interests in national politics. His resignation marks the end of a politically charged tenure filled with challenges and disputes.
