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.

The Deputy Spokesperson of the House of Representatives, Philip Agbese, has said that improved funding and the timely release of appropriated resources to the military remain critical to turning the tide in Nigeria’s war against insurgency and other forms of insecurity.

Agbese made the remarks while speaking with journalists in Abuja on Sunday, where he also commended the leadership of the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, and the Chief of Army Staff, Waidi Shaibu, for their “focused and results-driven approach” to tackling security challenges across the country.

The lawmaker said that while the Armed Forces have continued to demonstrate courage and resilience in the face of evolving threats, the effectiveness of their operations is closely tied to the availability of adequate and timely funding.

“Our military is doing an extraordinary job under very demanding conditions. However, no matter how committed and professional our troops are, the reality is that military operations require consistent funding, timely releases, and access to modern equipment,” Agbese said.

He noted that recent operational improvements in various theatres, including intensified offensives against insurgents and criminal groups, reflect a renewed strategic direction under the current military leadership.

According to him, General Oluyede has brought greater coordination and urgency to Nigeria’s defence architecture, while the Army under Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu has sustained pressure on insurgent elements through targeted ground operations.

Agbese said both leaders have demonstrated a clear understanding of the complexity of modern warfare, particularly the need for intelligence-driven operations and stronger synergy across the different arms of the military.

“What we are seeing today is a leadership that is not only committed but also strategic. There is better coordination, improved morale among troops, and a clear determination to confront these threats head-on,” he said.

The Benue lawmaker added that the Armed Forces have recorded notable successes in degrading insurgent capabilities, disrupting supply chains, and reclaiming territories previously under the control of non-state actors.

He stressed, however, that sustaining and expanding these gains would depend largely on how quickly and efficiently financial resources are made available to the military.

“Appropriations alone are not enough. What matters is the speed and consistency of releases. Delays in funding can slow down operations, affect logistics, and ultimately give criminal elements the breathing space they need,” Agbese said.

He called on relevant government institutions to prioritise defence funding, describing it as an investment in national stability rather than a routine budgetary obligation.

Agbese also urged Nigerians to recognise and support the efforts of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, noting that public confidence and cooperation remain vital to the success of security operations.

“Our troops are making sacrifices daily to keep the country safe. As citizens, we must support them; not just by acknowledging their efforts, but by cooperating with security agencies and providing useful information where necessary,” he said.

The lawmaker further emphasised the importance of sustained collaboration between the military and other security agencies, as well as state governments and local communities, in addressing the root causes of insecurity.

He expressed optimism that with improved funding, stronger institutional support, and continued leadership from the CDS and COAS, Nigeria can make significant progress in overcoming insurgency and restoring lasting peace.

“This is a fight we can win. With the right support, the right leadership, and a united national effort, we will see a turning point in our security landscape,” Agbese declared.

…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.