In a move that has been welcomed by many, President Tinubu has reshuffled his cabinet, retaining Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo as Interior Minister.
Darlington Nwauju, a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State, has praised the decision, stating that the restructuring was long overdue.
Nwauju had previously joined other notable civil society groups and party leaders in demanding a rejigging of the cabinet, including the merger of the Ministry of Police Affairs with the Ministry of Interior.
While stating that the merger is in line with the Steve Orasanye report on restructuring government parastatals and agencies, he noted that it aimed at cutting government expenses and increasing efficiency.
For Nwauju, Dr. Tunji-Ojo’s retention is a testament to his transformative leadership and commitment to public service excellence.
“Dr. Tunji-Ojo remains a shining example of how my generation can bring a touch of brilliance and multi-pronged approach to solving the perennial challenge of poor service delivery in our public service,” Nwauju said.
He added: “Under Dr. Tunji-Ojo’s leadership, the Interior Ministry has witnessed significant improvements. The correctional centres across the country have recorded notable advancements in both aesthetics and inmate wellbeing, marking a paradigm shift from punitive to holistic rehabilitation.
“The Ministry’s response to challenges around the custodial centres has received prompt, definite, and wholehearted attention. Notably, in August 2024, a 50% increase in daily feeding allowance per inmate was achieved across the 254 correctional centres nationwide.
“Furthermore, Dr. Tunji-Ojo’s Ministry orchestrated the clearance of fines and compensations worth N585million for 4,068 inmates, demonstrating a strong commitment to reforming the criminal justice system.”
Through partnerships entered into by the Ministry, an ultra-modern furniture factory was completed in Borno State, while a garments and shoes factory has been completed in Abia State.
In addition, the Interior Ministry has ended years of stagnation in the paramilitary services under its supervision. Over 60,000 senior and junior officers across the Immigration, Civil Defence, and Immigration services have received promotions.
“A functional Pensions Board has also been established, aligning paramilitary salaries with those of the Nigeria Police Force. This move aims to boost morale and efficiency within the services.
“The Ministry’s achievements extend to the Nigeria Immigration Services, where a backlog of 204,333 passports was cleared. The completion of a state-of-the-art Data Center and Command and Control Center at the NIS headquarters has streamlined visa and passport applications.
“The installation of E-gates at several airports across the country has also improved efficiency and security.”
Nwauju believes that Dr. Tunji-Ojo’s retention will deepen visionary public service, bringing renewed hope for a more efficient and effective government.
President Tinubu’s decision to retain Dr. Tunji-Ojo has been seen as a nod to his exceptional performance and commitment to public service. As the Interior Ministry continues to drive reforms, Nigerians can expect improved service delivery and enhanced national security.