January 11, 2025—The Northern Initiative Forum for Growth has called on President Bola Tinubu to appoint Bala Maijama’a Wunti as the substantive Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL). This appeal was made during a press conference in Bauchi, where representatives of the group emphasized the need for regional balance and representation in key government positions.
The group commended President Tinubu for making strategic appointments to address various regional challenges, as well as his efforts to promote inclusivity and regional balance. In a briefing signed by Alkasim Abdulkadir, National Coordinator, Abdulazeez Yahaya Umar (Mandela) National Secretary, and Mustapha Adamu, Director Planning, Research/Strategy, the Northern Initiative Forum for Growth stated that “the administration of President Ahmad Bola Tinubu has been doing well to promote balance in governance.”
The group strongly believes that Bala Wunti’s appointment as NNPC GMD is crucial at this juncture. They cited previous administrations’ successful appointments, such as Yusuf Burutai as Chief of Army Staff from the North-East zone, which helped curb the Boko Haram insurgency. Similarly, the appointment of Mamman as Minister of Power from the same zone facilitated the development of a massive power plant project.
The Northern Initiative Forum emphasized the importance of regional balance and representation in key government positions. They noted that the appointment of Bala Wunti as NNPC GMD would not only promote regional balance but also bring about a sense of inclusivity and representation for the people of the North.
In conclusion, the Northern Initiative Forum for Growth strongly urges President Tinubu to appoint Bala Maijama’a Wunti as the substantive Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL). They believe that this appointment would promote regional balance, inclusivity, and representation, ultimately contributing to the growth and development of the nation.
