The decision was announced on Thursday in a statement issued by presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga. The presidency said the appointment takes immediate effect.

In the same statement, the President renewed the tenure of Engineer Sule Ahmed Abdulaziz as Managing Director of the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) for a second and final term.

Aliyu comes into the role from the National Commission for Mass Literacy, Adult and Non-Formal Education, where he served as Executive Secretary.

The presidency described him as a “distinguished academic and seasoned administrator” with experience across research, education and institutional leadership.

“The President expects him to leverage his wealth of experience to reposition the PTDF for greater impact in human capital development, innovation, and strategic support for the oil and gas sector in line with national priorities,” the statement read.

His appointment points to a goal to strengthen institutions in the petroleum sector, especially around training and capacity building.

For Abdulaziz, the renewal follows what the presidency called a review of his first term in office. It said the transmission company recorded gains in grid stability, expansion of capacity and system upgrades under his leadership.

Officials also linked his work to regional electricity cooperation through the West African Power Pool.

President Tinubu urged both Shu’aibu Aliyu of PTDF and Engineer Sule Ahmed Abdulaziz of TCN to carry out their duties with diligence and integrity, aligning their work with the administration’s Renewed Hope agenda.

Still, Abdulaziz’s reappointment comes with questions. Over the past year, a series of reports alleging procurement breaches during his first term.

The reports noted documents from the Bureau of Public Procurement, which reviewed contracts awarded under emergency procedures.

According to one of the documents, 33 out of 285 contracts did not meet the requirements for emergency procurement under the Public Procurement Act, 2007.

“The Bureau observed that out of the 285 projects executed through the Emergency Procurement Method, 252 projects met the requirements for the adoption of the special method, while 33 projects should have been procured through other methods of procurement as indicated in the Table above.”

The reports also led to concerns about alleged contract splitting and the award of jobs said not to qualify as emergencies. Sources quoted in the reports claimed some contracts were linked to associates, though the company denied wrongdoing when contacted.

Another report alleged that a 2023 Lexus LX 600 SUV, valued at N298.4 million, was procured for the Minister of Power. Documents seen in that report showed payment records and contract details tied to the purchase.

The allegation noted the vehicle was meant to influence decisions on Abdulaziz’s position, a claim not confirmed by the authorities involved.

Despite the controversy, the government has stood by its decision, pointing to performance improvements in the transmission network.

The acquisition is an important step in Sophos’ strategy to help organizations strengthen cybersecurity strategy and governance across all levels of maturity, delivered through the company’s global partner ecosystem.

Sophos refers to this as Sophos CISO Advantage, a set of capabilities designed to scale the knowledge, judgment, and operating discipline of a world-class CISO to organizations with or without dedicated security leadership, combining agentic AI, integrated platforms, and trusted human expertise delivered in partnership with managed service providers (MSPs) and managed security service providers (MSSPs).

Advances in agentic and AI-assisted systems now make it possible to deliver real-time insight into control performance, while remaining grounded in human oversight and judgment.

Arco Cyber accelerates this vision by adding capabilities that help organizations continuously validate whether security controls are effective, map controls to risk and compliance frameworks, and present clear, executive-ready insight that supports better decision-making.

“There is no shortage of exemplary security technology in the market,” said Joe Levy, CEO of Sophos. “What’s missing for most organizations is the ability to govern those tools, understand whether controls are actually working, and make informed decisions about risk. Arco has built a platform and a team that offers clarity, accountability, and proof. That work directly supports our strategy, and it gives customers a stronger foundation for simplifying compliance and managing cyber risk with confidence.”

A critical element of Sophos CISO Advantage is the role of MSPs and MSSPs in delivering these capabilities at scale. Most organizations rely on trusted partners to translate insight into action, provide context, and guide day-to-day decision-making.

Sophos CISO Advantage is designed to strengthen that relationship by equipping partners with AI-driven governance, continuous assurance, and clear risk insight, enabling them to deliver CISO-level leadership as a service.

This approach allows MSPs and MSSPs to elevate their role from technology operators to strategic security advisors, while giving customers greater clarity, control, and confidence in how cyber risk is managed.

Addressing a Leadership Gap in Cybersecurity

There are an estimated 359 million organizations worldwide, yet fewer than 32,000 have a Chief Information Security Officer (CISO).

Those with CISOs or other dedicated security leadership also require clear risk assessments, governance, prioritization, and demonstrability of security effectiveness to boards, regulators, and insurers.

“As cybersecurity matures beyond alerts and point solutions, organizations are increasingly focused on proving impact, not just activity,” said Phil Harris, research director, Governance, Risk and Compliance Solutions at IDC. “Boards, regulators, and insurers want clear evidence that security investments are reducing risk and strengthening governance. Platforms that integrate detection and response with assurance, advisory, and risk-based measurement are better aligned with how organizations actually operate. The Sophos and Arco Cyber combination represents a new category of platform-led cybersecurity that connects operations, assurance, and risk-based outcomes.”

For organizations with a CISO or similar leadership, Sophos CISO Advantage will provide a more efficient, integrated way to manage risk, track progress, and communicate outcomes. For organizations without one, it will deliver practical, CISO-level guidance that helps them take control of their security posture and decisions.

“Arco was founded to help organizations move from assumption to proof in cybersecurity,” said Matt Helling, CEO and co-founder of Arco Cyber. “By joining Sophos, we can deliver against that mission and reach far more customers who are struggling to demonstrate control effectiveness, prioritize risk, and justify security decisions. Sophos shares our belief that cybersecurity should deliver clarity, confidence, and control, not just data. Together, we can help organizations of all sizes turn security into a managed, defensible business discipline.”

Arco Cyber will join Sophos as a dedicated team to advance Sophos CISO Advantage. Its technology and expertise will be integrated into Sophos Central, the platform which delivers Sophos’ broader ecosystem including advisory services, managed detection and response (MDR), and partner-delivered services that enable MSPs and MSSPs to scale cybersecurity strategy for their customers.

The swearing-in ceremony took place Council Chamber of the State House, Abuja, before the start of the Federal Executive Council meeting. 

Dr Bernard Doro, a UK-trained clinical practitioner with vast experience, is a seasoned  pharmaceutical and public health administrator. 

He was earlier nominated to replace the current APC National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, who formerly served as minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction before emerging as the party’s chairman on July 31, 2025. 

The appointments comply with the Federal Character Commission Act, as Enugu and Plateau States previously had no representation at the Federal Executive Council. Their swearing-in brings the Tinubu administration’s cabinet size to 48.  

Some analysts have raised reservations about the number of ministers in the Tinubu administration. However, the appointments of Doro and Udeh are considered necessary, as both states were previously underrepresented.

Among those who have objected to government spending is the former Central Bank Governor and Emir of Kano, Sanusi Lamido Sanusi.

Speaking at the Oxford Global Think Tank Leadership Conference and Book Launch, the monarch said, “If you stop paying subsidies but continue borrowing more, it means you’ve filled one hole only to dig another. The real challenge now is the quality of government spending and the management of the revenues saved,” he said. 

Dr Doro hails from Kwall, Bassa Local Government Area of Plateau State. According to the Presidency, he holds multiple degrees in Pharmacy, Law, and Advanced Clinical Practice. 

Dr Kingsley Udeh, who served as attorney-general and the commissioner for Justice in Enugu State until his appointment, replaces Uche Nnaji, the former Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology.

Nnaji resigned on October 7, 2025, following public controversy over his academic records at the University of Nigeria, Nsuka (UNN). 

After the swearing-in, the Federal Executive Meeting went into a closed session, its first since July 2025. The reason the meetings have not been held weekly, as in the previous administration, has not been made public by the Federal Government. 

The Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, briefed the council on Nigeria’s return to the international capital market, noting that the $2.35 billion Eurobond was oversubscribed by an all-time 453%, attracting $13 billion in orders, as reported by the Debt Management Office (DMO).

“The next phase of reforms will remove barriers holding back investors. We will review tariffs and import restrictions to stimulate productivity and investment,” the Minister said.

Analysing the role of journalists in ensuring accountability, transparency, and development in Nigeria, the event opened with Dr. Peter Bamkole, PAU’s Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Admin), noting the importance of reliable and trustworthy reporting. 

He stated, “Truthful narratives promote constructive engagement instead of negativity.”

The panel of media professionals, including Magnus Onyibe (Public Policy Analyst and Author), Fisayo Soyombo (Founder, Foundation for Investigative Journalism), Sherriff Quadry (Broadcast Journalist, Nigeria Info), Margaret Agada-Mba (Lecturer, PAU), and Jonathan James Lyamgohn (Media Consultant), spoke on the multifaceted challenges of journalism in Nigeria. 

Moderated by Onyinyechi Aderibigbe (Nigeria Info) and Elizabeth Musa (Business Day), the panellists discussed how journalists must serve as watchdogs, acting as agents of change and intermediaries between the government and the public.

Sheriff Quadry reiterated the difficulty faced by Nigerian journalists. “Even when you know your ethics and are committed to your responsibilities, it’s often an uphill battle to do your job,” he said. 

This challenge, Quadry noted, is compounded by the perception among public officials that they are not to be questioned or scrutinised. Journalists, therefore, must exhibit extraordinary resilience and sacrifice to ensure they fulfil their role as custodians of truth.

A valid point raised by Fisayo Soyombo was the tendency of appointed officials to view media reportage as an attempt to undermine their success. “It takes more than courage,” he said, “it requires a strong commitment to education, sacrifice, and a deep sense of responsibility to overcome the complex sector of Nigerian governance.”

He argued that the solution to harassment is “more journalism,” and stressed that the journalist’s core duty is uncovering the truth.

Margaret Agada-Mba raised a question about whether the government sees the media as partners in national development. She argued that effective media engagement could be very useful in driving societal progress.

Despite these challenges, the importance of the media in nation-building was reiterated throughout the discussion, exploring how effective media engagement can drive positive societal change. 

Jonathan James Lyamgohn spoke on the importance of maintaining respect, patriotism, and press independence while engaging with the government. He reminded the audience that journalists are the “fourth estate of the realm” and that “our ultimate employer is the people.” 

This perspective highlighted the responsibility journalists hold in shaping public opinion and holding power to account.

He argued that while there must be room for constructive criticism, journalists must also be mindful of the broader implications of their reporting. A delicate balance must be maintained between transparency and the potential harm that can come from misrepresenting sensitive issues, particularly in a diverse society like Nigeria.

Magnus Onyibe further advised journalists to uphold integrity when collaborating with government bodies, stressing that this balance is essential for safeguarding press freedom while enabling constructive dialogue. 

Tolulope Adeleru-Balogun added that cultural sensitivities should not hinder press freedom, reminding journalists of their role as truth-tellers and the importance of mentoring future generations.

Negative reportage should not be sensationalised, but presented with care to avoid escalating tensions or public unrest.

The Role of Digital Technology and Fact-Checking

The conversation shifted to the impact of digital technology on journalism. It was noted that the rise of digital platforms and social media has disrupted traditional journalism, often leading to the spread of misinformation. 

This has further complicated the job of professional journalists, who now face competition from unregulated sources of information. Citizen journalism is on the rise, but it comes with its own set of risks. The public often cannot distinguish between trained journalists and those who simply present news without verifying facts.

In this context, the importance of fact-checking was stressed. Speakers urged journalists to take extra care in verifying information, particularly in the fast-changing digital world where false news can spread rapidly.

“It’s important that news organisations invest in fact-checking mechanisms, because once misinformation is out there, the damage is often irreversible.”

As the event drew to a close, there was a consensus on the need for the media to maintain its role as a gatekeeper of information while being mindful of the powerful influence it holds over public opinion. “We must be transparent and honest, but also sensitive to the context in which we operate,” Quadry said. 

“Journalists in Nigeria cannot afford to operate without caution, especially given the nature of our political and social environment.”

In Nigeria, where the line between critique and defamation can be blurred, journalists must continue to act as the voice of the people while scaling the complexities of reporting in a politically charged atmosphere. 

The PAU Media Roundtable called for a resuscitated focus on constructive media engagement that supports national development while holding those in power accountable.

Let’s explore how AI can empower the President to make more informed decisions, improve governance, and address critical issues facing the nation.

1. Data-Driven Insights

One of the primary advantages of AI is its ability to analyze vast amounts of data and extract meaningful insights. By harnessing AI technologies such as machine learning and natural language processing, the Nigerian President can access real-time data on various sectors, including the economy, healthcare, security, infrastructure, and education.

This data-driven approach enables evidence-based decision-making, helping the President gain a comprehensive understanding of complex issues and formulate effective policies.

2. Enhanced Predictive Capabilities

AI algorithms can analyze historical data and patterns to make accurate predictions about future trends and outcomes. Via the leverage of predictive analytics, the President can anticipate potential challenges and opportunities, enabling proactive decision-making.

For instance, AI can forecast economic indicators, identify potential hotspots for security threats, or predict disease outbreaks, enabling the President to take preventive measures and allocate resources efficiently.

3. Policy Simulation and Scenario Planning

AI can facilitate policy simulation and scenario planning, allowing the Nigerian President to evaluate the potential impact of different policy choices before implementation.

Through the creation of virtual simulations based on real-world data, AI systems can model the consequences of various decisions, helping the President assess the likely outcomes, risks, and benefits. This capability enables the President to make informed choices and minimize unintended consequences.

4. Efficient Resource Allocation

Optimizing resource allocation is crucial for effective governance. AI-powered systems can analyze data on budgetary allocations, population demographics, and societal needs to assist the President in making informed decisions about resource distribution.

When dentifying areas that require more investment or intervention, AI can help prioritize critical sectors such as education, healthcare, infrastructure, and poverty alleviation, ensuring resources are allocated where they are most needed.

5. Intelligent Decision Support

AI can serve as a valuable decision support tool for the President. AI systems can provide real-time information, generate insights, and offer recommendations based on vast amounts of data.

This assistance can help the President navigate complex issues, weigh multiple factors, and consider a wide range of perspectives. With AI’s support, the President can make well-informed decisions that are grounded in data, expertise, and diverse viewpoints.

Conclusion

As Nigeria continues its journey towards progress and development, harnessing the power of AI can provide immense benefits for the President in making informed decisions. 

However, it is crucial to recognize that AI is a tool that should complement human judgment and values, ensuring that decisions align with the aspirations and needs of the Nigerian people. 

With careful implementation and ethical considerations, AI has the potential to drive Nigeria towards a brighter future, addressing challenges, and unlocking new opportunities for growth and prosperity.