The Renewed Hope Labourers Network (RHLN), a cross-party political support group, has described the appointment of Taiwo Oyedele as Minister of Finance as a strong signal that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is demonstrating adaptive and performance-driven leadership in managing Nigeria’s economic team.

In a statement issued on Monday and signed by its National Coordinator, Barrister Godwin Onwe, the group said the decision reflects what it called “a pragmatic, reform-oriented and results-focused leadership style capable of responding to shifting economic realities.”

The group likened the President’s approach to that of a seasoned coach who understands when to introduce new energy into a struggling team in order to improve performance, particularly in a sensitive sector such as national finance and economic management.

“The Renewed Hope Labourers Network views the appointment of Taiwo Oyedele as Minister of Finance as a bold and strategic decision. It reflects President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s capacity to reassess performance and reposition his economic management team in line with national priorities,” the statement read.

Barrister Onwe noted that Nigeria’s current economic challenges require a blend of technical expertise, policy depth, and reform credibility, particularly in the areas of taxation, revenue mobilisation, and fiscal governance.

He highlighted Oyedele’s extensive background as a leading tax and fiscal policy expert, noting that he previously built a distinguished career at PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC), where he rose to become Partner and West Africa Tax Leader, advising governments and multinational institutions on tax policy and fiscal reforms.

According to the group, Oyedele also played a central role in Nigeria’s most recent tax reform efforts, serving as Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, where he led the drafting and design of comprehensive tax reform proposals aimed at simplifying the tax system, improving compliance, and expanding the country’s revenue base.

“Taiwo Oyedele is not just an administrator; he is a globally respected fiscal policy expert with deep experience in tax reform, economic advisory, and public finance. His leadership of the Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms Committee underscores his capacity to design systems that are efficient, fair, and growth-oriented,” Onwe said.

The group further noted that Oyedele’s reform philosophy is anchored on building an economy that works for ordinary Nigerians, particularly small businesses, low-income earners, and informal sector participants who are often disproportionately affected by inefficient tax structures.

It said his approach reflects a commitment to simplifying taxation, broadening the tax net without overburdening the poor, and ensuring that fiscal policy supports inclusive growth.

“This appointment should be seen as part of a broader effort to build a more equitable fiscal system—one that promotes compliance, reduces inefficiencies, and ensures that economic growth translates into tangible benefits for the masses,” the statement added.

The group emphasised that leadership in economic management requires not only political will but also technical depth, and described Oyedele’s appointment as a convergence of both.

It reiterated that the “coach replacing fatigued players” analogy reflects a governance philosophy that prioritises results, accountability, and continuous improvement.

Barrister Onwe also urged stakeholders across political and economic sectors to support the administration’s reform agenda, noting that successful fiscal transformation requires collective understanding and cooperation.

“At a time when Nigeria is navigating complex fiscal and economic pressures, it is important that we support leadership decisions aimed at strengthening institutions, improving revenue generation, and ensuring economic stability,” he said.

The Renewed Hope Labourers Network concluded by expressing confidence that Oyedele’s expertise will contribute significantly to reshaping Nigeria’s fiscal architecture, describing the appointment as “a strategic investment in competence, reform, and long-term economic stability.”

It reaffirmed its support for President Tinubu’s leadership, stating that the administration’s willingness to deploy technocratic expertise in key sectors reflects a commitment to sustainable national development.

…Commends Gov Bago’s Development Drive

The Niger Good Governance Forum has commended Senator Mohammed Sani Musa for his responsive and people-centred representation, endorsing him for a third term in the national assembly.

The endorsement was contained in a statement issued on Saturday and signed by Bagudu Musa Bagudu, president of the group, who said the lawmaker has demonstrated sustained commitment to governance, legislative effectiveness and constituency development since assuming office.

Bagudu said the group reached its decision after a detailed review of Musa’s performance, citing his contributions to lawmaking, oversight functions and interventions across communities in Niger East senatorial district.

“Senator Sani Musa has shown capacity, consistency and a deep understanding of the needs of his constituents. His track record in the senate and his engagement with the grassroots clearly set him apart as a lawmaker deserving of continuity,” he said.

The group noted that Musa’s legislative activities and advocacy on national issues have positioned him as a strong voice within the senate, adding that his approach to representation reflects accountability and accessibility.

According to Bagudu, the senator’s constituency projects and empowerment programmes have had measurable impact across various sectors, including education, youth development and community support initiatives.

“Beyond the chambers, his interventions at the constituency level have touched lives directly. From support for small businesses to educational assistance and infrastructure facilitation, the evidence of his work is visible and widely acknowledged,” he said.

The forum also commended Musa’s role in promoting policies aimed at strengthening economic growth and national stability, noting that his contributions align with broader development goals.

Bagudu further used the opportunity to praise Mohammed Umar Bago for what he described as a bold and transformative leadership approach through the New Niger Agenda Development Blueprint.

He said the governor’s vision is already repositioning the state for long-term growth, particularly in infrastructure, agriculture and economic expansion.

“The New Niger Agenda is a clear demonstration of purposeful leadership. Governor Bago has shown determination in driving reforms that will place Niger State on a stronger development path, and we commend his commitment to delivering results for the people,” he said.

Bagudu added that synergy between the executive and legislative arms remains critical to sustaining development gains in the state.

He noted that continuity in representation at the national assembly level would complement ongoing reforms under the current administration in Niger State.

“We believe that the progress made so far should not be disrupted. A third term will provide the opportunity to deepen ongoing initiatives and deliver even greater benefits to the people,” he said.

The group called on political stakeholders and voters in Niger East to rally behind the senator, describing him as a dependable leader with a clear vision for development.

“We urge the good people of Niger East to continue supporting Senator Mohammed Sani Musa. Leadership is about results, and he has shown that he can deliver,” Bagudu added.

The Niger Good Governance Forum reaffirmed its commitment to promoting accountability and supporting leaders it considers capable of advancing good governance and sustainable development.

The Lagos State chapter of the Renewed Hope Labourers Network (RHLN) has endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a second term in office and backed Lagos State Deputy Governor, Obafemi Hamzat, as its preferred candidate for the 2027 governorship election.

The endorsement was announced in a statement issued on Thursday and signed by John Folarin Odusote, the Lagos State coordinator of the group, who described both leaders as “tested reformers whose leadership has delivered measurable progress”.

Odusote said the decision followed extensive consultations among members of the network across the state, noting that the group is committed to continuity in governance at both the federal and state levels.

According to him, President Tinubu’s administration has demonstrated a clear commitment to economic restructuring, infrastructure development and institutional reforms, which require sustained leadership to fully mature.

“We believe that the ongoing reforms at the federal level need time, consistency and political will to yield their full benefits. President Tinubu has shown courage in taking difficult but necessary decisions, and we are convinced that a second term will consolidate these gains,” the statement said.

The group noted that the administration’s policies on fiscal reforms, infrastructure expansion and governance restructuring have begun to reposition the country for long-term growth, adding that continuity would ensure stability and policy coherence.

On Lagos State, the group described Hamzat as a “quiet achiever” whose contributions to governance have been instrumental in sustaining the state’s development trajectory.

“Over the years, Dr Obafemi Hamzat has demonstrated competence, loyalty and a deep understanding of the policy direction that has made Lagos a model for subnational governance,” Odusote said.

The RHLN said Hamzat’s experience in public service, including his roles in infrastructure and technology development, positions him as a capable leader to take Lagos to the next phase of growth.

“His involvement in key reforms, particularly in the areas of digital governance, urban development and public service delivery, reflects a leadership style anchored on innovation and continuity,” the statement added.

The group emphasised that Lagos requires a leader who understands the complexities of governance in a rapidly growing megacity and can build on existing foundations without disruption.

According to Odusote, Hamzat represents stability and continuity, qualities the group considers critical as the state navigates future challenges related to population growth, infrastructure demands and economic expansion.

The RHLN also acknowledged the role of Rt. Hon. Abiodun Faleke, the grand patron of the group, describing him as a “pillar of progressive politics and a strong advocate for people-oriented governance”.

The group said Faleke’s support has strengthened its mobilisation efforts and reinforced its commitment to promoting leaders who align with its vision of good governance and continuity.

“We are proud to be guided by leaders who believe in service, accountability and strategic development. Rt. Hon. Faleke’s leadership continues to inspire our engagement across Lagos State,” Odusote said.

The group called on residents of Lagos and Nigerians at large to support its position, stressing that continuity in leadership is essential for sustaining ongoing reforms and development initiatives.

“As a network committed to national progress, we are confident that the combination of President Tinubu’s leadership at the federal level and Dr Hamzat’s prospective leadership in Lagos will deliver greater prosperity and stability,” the statement said.

The RHLN added that it would commence grassroots mobilisation across the state to build support for both leaders ahead of the 2027 general election, expressing optimism that its endorsement reflects the aspirations of many Nigerians seeking sustained development.