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| Engr. Babachir David Lawal |
National Leader of the All Progressives
Congress (APC), Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Saturday described the appointment
of Engr. Babachir David Lawal as Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF),
as a step in the right direction, expressing optimism that he would bring his wealth
of experience to bear in the office.
Tinubu, who spoke at a Thanksgiving reception
held in Abuja in honour of Lawal, extolled his qualities, saying that while some
of his contemporaries have succumbed to the temptation of illicit wealth and the
abuses of power and privilege, he (Lawal) has remained faithful to the course of
the nation.
Alluding to the fact that his appointment
was a reward for hard work and selfless service, he said Lawal’s eye for detail
and due process makes him the best man for the job.
Tinubu who
was represented at the event by the Lagos State Governor, Mr Akinwunmi Ambode said,
“If you are looking for a man who is diligent in his work with a keen
eye for details and correct process, there is none better than Babachir
Lawal”.
“He knows
this nation and understands its complexities, from the intricacies of our
federal bureaucracy to the diversity of our social fabric to the, multiple
dimensions of our political dynamics.
“He is
a man well-tailored to fit his position in today's Nigeria where we
find ourselves in a situation not meant for the
faint hearted. A situation that requires grit, guts and wisdom. These attributes, Lawal has in abundance”.
Tinubu said
that despite the qualities the SGF possesses, he has remained humble, a character
he said was rare in the nation’s political climate.
“He is
humble and does not need to see his name in the spotlight. As long as the job
is done correctly, he is happy. He does not seek credit even when duly deserved.
This humility and self-contentment is not a common thing, especially in the
arena of politics and government”.
He expressed
confidence that Lawal will ensure that operations of the President Muhammadu Buhari
administration will be conducted smoothly and professionally.
“He will
do his utmost to do the best for all of Nigeria. He plays no favorites and is
not one to operate under the veil of bias or discrimination. This big
often gruff man also has a big heart and that heart is dedicated to good of our
beloved land”.
“Through
the
years I have known BD Lawal, he has remained steadfast in his political
beliefs. Never wavering and always resolute in his
political convictions, BD does not blow with the prevailing political
wind. He is a true
ally, who remains by your side when the times get tough. He
does not honey-coat his words or actions, he cuts through the chase
and blunt also to a fault”.
He also charged
him to justify the confidence reposed on him by Nigerians, urging him to impact
the system positively and help put an end to the malpractices of
the past that have stalled and burdened the nation.
“All that
you have learned. All of that experience. All of your insight,
your nimble yet steady mind, and your friendly yet firm
political nature must be brought to bear in this present assignment.
“Nigeria
is at the cusp of a stupendous change for which we all labored. You have been
tapped as one of the chief engineers who must make that change
happen. We know that you shall excel because you have been born for this
moment and this moment was born for you”, Tinubu said.
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