Tinubu Picks Ibrahim as Youth Minister, Snubs Dayo Israel

ABUJA, (iexclusivenews) – In a surprising move, President Bola Tinubu has chosen Dr Jamila Bio Ibrahim as his nominee for the minister of youth, ending the speculation and anticipation that surrounded the position.

The president also nominated Mr Ayodele Olawande as the minister of state for youth.

Who is Jamila Bio Ibrahim?

Dr Jamila Bio Ibrahim is a renowned medical practitioner and a passionate youth advocate.

She has served as the President of the Progressive Young Women Forum (PYWF), a platform that empowers and mentors young women in politics and leadership.

Dr Jamila has also worked as the Senior Special Assistant to the Kwara State Governor on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), where she championed various initiatives to promote social and economic development in the state.

She is widely respected for her professionalism, integrity and vision. She has received several awards and recognitions for her outstanding contributions to the health sector and the youth agenda.

Dr Ibrahim holds a Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery (MBBS) from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, and a Master of Public Health (MPH) from Harvard University, USA.

Who is Ayodele Olawande?

Mr Ayodele Olawande is a seasoned community development expert and a prominent youth leader within the All Progressives Congress (APC).

He has been involved in several grassroots mobilization and empowerment programs for young people across the country.

Mr Ayodele has also played a key role in the Office of the Special Adviser to the President on Innovation from 2019 to 2023.

He coordinated and implemented various innovative projects and policies to foster creativity and entrepreneurship among Nigerian youths.

Mr Olawande is known for his dynamism, charisma and strategic thinking. He has a Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Economics from Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, and a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Lagos Business School.

Why Dayo Israel was Snubbed

The top contender for the office, Dayo Israel, who is the national youth leader of the APC, was snubbed by President Tinubu in his nomination.

Mr Dayo Israel had been widely tipped to clinch the position, given his popularity and influence among Nigerian youths.

He had also been vocal in his support for President Tinubu’s administration and policies.

However, his chances were dashed last month, when a group of influential APC state youth leaders wrote to President Tinubu, suggesting that his son, Seyi Tinubu, be given a say in selecting the country’s youth minister.

It is not clear whether it was Seyi Tinubu who nominated Dr Ibrahim and Mr Olawande.

The nominations of Dr Ibrahim and Mr Olawande are now subject to confirmation by the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.