As President Bola Ahmed Tinubu gears up to rejig his cabinet, several names of potential appointees, as well as those who may step down, have been circulating within political circles. Among these names are prominent figures like Babatunde Raji Fashola, Nasir El-Rufai, and of course, Dr. Ramatu Tijjani Aliyu, whose service and leadership have distinguished her on the national stage.
Dr. Ramatu Tijjani Aliyu, a former Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), is a formidable leader whose influence extends far beyond the corridors of power. Her tenure was marked by a hands-on approach to governance, ensuring that her impact was felt in both rural and urban communities alike. Her passion for grassroots development has set her apart from her contemporaries, as she consistently championed initiatives that improved the lives of ordinary citizens.
Moreover, Dr. Aliyu was at the forefront of President Bola Tinubu’s presidential campaign, a movement she passionately pushed, even at personal cost. She was one of the key drivers behind the campaign’s momentum, mobilizing support across different regions of the country. Her commitment to Tinubu’s vision for Nigeria’s future was unwavering, and she sacrificed much to ensure its success. In doing so, she cemented herself as not only a political ally but as someone whose dedication transcends the typical boundaries of political allegiance.
It is often said that anybody can be appointed into an office, but leaders are forged by their purposive resilience through adversity, and they earn their stripes by the impact they make against the odds. Dr. Ramatu Tijjani Aliyu earned her stripes in one of the most difficult and thankless battles in recent history—the fight against the Coronavirus pandemic in the FCT. From market advocacy to strategic policy decisions, stakeholder mobilization, the distribution of social services and palliatives, to the provision of medical facilities and interventions, she was at the forefront of the battle. It’s astonishing how many people still recall her bravery and tireless efforts in that difficult time, and it remains one of the first things people often bring up when her name is mentioned.
Recently, I visited a specialist hospital run by a reputable foreign-owned foundation, which is making significant humanitarian impact, particularly across Northern Nigeria. To my amazement, the hospital management spent a considerable amount of time recalling how they, along with many other organizations, were mobilized and led by Dr. Ramatu during the pandemic. They expressed their wonder at the selflessness she demonstrated, and they asked repeatedly where such a leader might be now. This left me reflecting on the lasting positive impression she has made on so many people and organizations.
Perhaps the answer to her enduring legacy lies in the very essence of true leadership: leaders are forged in the face of adversity. Dr. Ramatu’s fight against the pandemic solidified her as a leader who not only stands tall in the face of challenges but one who galvanizes the collective will of the people.
Her accomplishments during that period were not confined to only crisis management but extended to building long-term resilience in FCT communities. She was deeply involved in the deployment of social safety nets for vulnerable populations, championing initiatives that focused on healthcare, education, and youth empowerment. Her leadership underscored the principle that governance is not just about responding to crises but also about establishing enduring systems that will benefit future generations.
Additionally, Dr. Aliyu has built a formidable sociopolitical movement known as #TeamRamatu, composed of dedicated men and women from across the country. This loyal and dynamic group is ready to take on any challenge in her defense. She has leveraged this movement to galvanize support for the Renewed Hope agenda of President Tinubu, mobilizing grassroots efforts to ensure the administration’s goals reach every corner of Nigeria. Moreover, her nationwide support group, Nigerians Unite For Tinubu/Shettima Mandate (NUFTS), with its strong presence in all 36 states and the FCT, played a crucial role in securing the mandate for the Tinubu/Shettima ticket.
As President Tinubu weighs his options, the question is not whether Dr. Ramatu Tijjani Aliyu is qualified for a key role in his administration, but whether Nigeria can afford not to have such a dynamic leader in its decision-making body. Leadership requires competence, vision, and dedication—all qualities Dr. Aliyu embodies fully.
In the end, the cap indeed fits, and there is little doubt that Dr. Ramatu Tijjani Aliyu is ready to wear it, continuing her legacy of service to the nation.
By Sani Mustapha is a public affairs analyst.
