President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has named Rinsola Abiola, daughter of the late pro-democracy icon MKO Abiola, as the new Director-General of the Citizenship and Leadership Training Centre (CLTC). The appointment, announced on Monday by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, has sparked conversation across political and social circles.
Rinsola Abiola brings a wealth of experience in strategic communication and government relations, having served as Senior Special Assistant to President Tinubu prior to this new role. She is now set to lead the Abuja-based institution dedicated to training Nigerians in leadership skills, civic responsibility, and patriotism.
Her father, Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola, remains a legendary figure in Nigeria’s democratic journey, famously regarded as the rightful winner of the annulled June 12, 1993 presidential election — a landmark moment in the country’s political history.
Alongside Rinsola’s appointment, President Tinubu also named Nasir Bala Aminu Ja’oji as Senior Special Assistant on Citizenship and Leadership. Ja’oji’s background includes advisory roles to the Kano State Governor and membership on the Coordinated Arewa Youth Groups Governing Council. He is widely recognized for his advocacy for women and youth empowerment across Nigeria.
Despite some criticisms accusing the Tinubu administration of favouring political allies and prominent families in key appointments, the Presidency insists its selections are merit-based and grounded in proven expertise.
The official statement read:
“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has appointed Ms. Rinsola Abiola as Director-General of the Citizenship and Leadership Training Centre (CLTC). Ms. Abiola, an expert in strategic communication and government relations, previously served as Senior Special Assistant to the President.
“Additionally, Nasir Bala Aminu Ja’oji has been appointed Senior Special Assistant on Citizenship and Leadership. Mr. Ja’oji has served as Special Adviser on Mobilisation to the Governor of Kano State and is an advocate for women and youth empowerment.”
This strategic leadership shake-up highlights the administration’s ongoing focus on nurturing civic engagement and leadership development as Nigeria navigates its complex political landscape.