Tambuwal Says Inclusive and Deliberate Leadership Is Key to Nigeria’s Growth

Former Governor of Sokoto State and Senator representing Sokoto South, Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, has reiterated his long-standing belief that Nigeria’s growth and development depend largely on the quality of its leadership. According to him, effective leadership must be deliberate, inclusive, and fair, with inclusiveness serving as a central pillar for sustainable governance and national progress.

Tambuwal made these remarks while reflecting on his years in public service, particularly his tenure as governor of Sokoto State, in the context of his recent 60th birthday colloquium themed “Leadership, Service and Statesmanship.” He explained that the theme of the colloquium was not accidental, but rather a reflection of values he believes are urgently needed to reposition Nigeria on the path of growth and unity.

The former governor emphasized that leadership is not merely about holding office or exercising authority, but about making conscious decisions that ensure all segments of society are adequately represented in governance. In his view, exclusion breeds resentment and stagnation, while inclusion fosters a sense of ownership, stability, and collective responsibility for national development.

Tambuwal noted that this philosophy strongly influenced policy choices during his administration in Sokoto State, especially in relation to gender inclusion and youth participation in governance. He said his government deliberately broke away from long-standing practices that relegated women to the sidelines or confined them to stereotypical roles within government.

One of the key steps taken by his administration, according to Tambuwal, was the appointment of three female commissioners to key and sensitive ministries. He pointed out that this was a significant departure from the tradition of limiting women’s appointments largely to the Ministry of Women Affairs, a practice he described as symbolic rather than empowering.

Beyond the state executive council, Tambuwal said his administration ensured that women were meaningfully represented at the grassroots level. He disclosed that at least three female councillors were appointed in each local government area across the state, with Tambuwal Local Government Area having about five female councillors alone. In total, he said, 71 women served as councillors during his tenure.

The former governor further revealed that women also held top positions within the state civil service under his leadership. According to him, his government appointed seven female Permanent Secretaries and nine female Directors-General. In addition, a significant number of women served on boards of agencies and parastatals, as well as in roles such as Special Advisers and Special Assistants.

Tambuwal argued that such inclusive policies are not acts of charity or tokenism, but strategic decisions aimed at strengthening governance outcomes. He maintained that societies that fail to harness the talents and perspectives of women and young people limit their own potential for growth and innovation.

In a post shared on X (formerly Twitter), Tambuwal restated his conviction that inclusive leadership remains indispensable to nation-building. He wrote that during his tenure as governor, his approach to governance was consistently guided by the belief that leadership must be intentional and fair, with deliberate efforts made to create space for women and youths to contribute meaningfully to public decision-making.

He added that Nigeria’s persistent challenges — ranging from poverty and insecurity to unemployment and weak institutions — cannot be effectively addressed without leadership that prioritizes fairness, equity, and broad participation. According to him, sustainable national development can only be achieved when governance structures reflect the diversity of the society they serve.

While his comments have sparked mixed reactions among Nigerians, with critics questioning his record in office and supporters praising his emphasis on inclusiveness, Tambuwal insists that the principles he advocates remain relevant regardless of political affiliation. He concluded that Nigeria’s future depends on leaders who are willing to move beyond rhetoric and consciously build systems that give every citizen a sense of belonging and opportunity.

As the country continues to grapple with economic and social challenges, Tambuwal’s remarks have once again brought the debate on leadership quality, accountability, and inclusiveness to the forefront of national discourse.