In a recent week, a narrative has emerged — largely driven by former Kaduna State governor Nasir El-Rufai and amplified by some political actors — alleging that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is skewing federal appointments, particularly in the military and security sector, overwhelmingly in favour of his Yoruba base in the Southwest. But is this claim supported by facts?
A Look at the Tinubu Security Architecture
Nigeria currently has over 20 top military and security leadership positions. According to official records and data compiled by policy analysts, of the 21 key positions, only 6 are occupied by individuals from the Southwest — President Tinubu’s geopolitical zone.
Here is the regional breakdown of those currently at the helm of Nigeria’s security apparatus:
Office Name Region
- Minister of Defence Mohammed Abubakar Northwest
- Minister of State for Defence Bello Matawalle Northwest
- National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu Northeast
- Chief of Army Staff Major Gen. Olufemi Oluyede Southwest
- Chief of Air Staff Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar Northwest
- Chief of Naval Staff Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla Southeast
- Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun Southwest
- DG DSS Adeola Ajayi Southwest
- DG NIA Amb. Mohammed Mohammed North Central
- Chief of Defence Intelligence Maj. Gen.
- Emmanuel Undiandeye South-South
- CG Nigeria Immigration Service Kemi Nandap North Central (by marriage)
- CG Nigeria Customs Service Bashir Adewale Adeniyi Southwest
- CG Nigeria Correctional Service Haliru Nababa Northwest
- NDLEA Chairman Mohammed Buba Marwa Northeast
- EFCC Chairman Olanipekun Olukayode Southwest
- FRSC Corps Marshal Shehu Usman Mohammed Northwest
- CG NSCDC Dr. Ahmed Audi North Central
ICPC Chairman Dr. Musa Aliyu Northwest - DG NFIU Hajiya Hafsat Bakari Northeast
CG Federal Fire Service Engr. Jaji O. Abdulganiyu North Central
DG NYSC Brig. Gen. Olakunle Nafiu Southwest
While the Southwest holds a fair number of prominent roles (notably in Customs, DSS, EFCC, and Army), the Northwest maintains dominance with at least six strategic appointments, including the Defence Ministry, Air Force, Correctional Service, and Road Safety Commission. The North Central and Northeast follow, each with a strong presence.
Notably, for the first time in eight years, a Southeasterner — Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla — sits on the Joint Chiefs of Staff, a development many see as a move toward inclusivity.
The Buhari Era: A Comparative Snapshot
Under former President Muhammadu Buhari, appointments leaned heavily toward the North, particularly the Northwest and Northeast, as documented by political commentator Reno Omokri and verified through public records.
A partial list of top appointments under Buhari includes:
- President: North
- Senate President: North
- Chief Justice (after Onnoghen’s removal): North
- Chief of Staff: North
- Secretary to the Government: North
- National Security Adviser: North
- Minister of Petroleum, Finance, Defence: All North
- Heads of DSS, NIA, Customs, Immigration, EFCC, ICPC, NYSC, NDLEA, Correctional Service, Police, etc.: Largely North
By some estimates, over 85% of key federal agencies during the Buhari administration were led by Northerners, drawing criticism even from within his party and fueling regional resentment.
What the Data Suggests
While President Tinubu’s appointments have raised concerns in certain quarters, especially as political tensions rise within the APC, objective analysis shows a relatively more regionally balanced structure — at least compared to the Buhari era.
Critics may argue that Southwest appointments remain significant, especially in high-profile security and anti-corruption roles. However, when examined within the wider framework — considering the Northwest still holds the Defence Ministry, Air Force, Correctional Services, and a strong grip on paramilitary agencies — the picture that emerges is far from lopsided.
Conclusion
Discussions about fairness and federal character in appointments are legitimate in a multi-ethnic federation like Nigeria. However, facts should guide public discourse.
Claims that the Tinubu administration is disproportionately favouring the Yoruba Southwest in security appointments do not withstand close scrutiny, especially when juxtaposed with the ethno-regional domination witnessed under Buhari.
As Nigeria continues its democratic journey, it is imperative that appointments not only reflect merit and capacity but also reinforce national cohesion — a principle enshrined in the Constitution’s Federal Character Clause.