The Niger State Governor and Chairman of the North-Central Governors’ Forum, Abubakar Bello has commended the appointment of the new Chief of Staff (CoS) to President Muhammadu, Ibrahim Gambari, describing him as a seasoned scholar.
Governor Bello said the appointment of Professor Gambari is laudable considering the fact that he is a seasoned scholar and experienced diplomat.
In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Mrs. Mary Noel Berje, the Governor expressed hope that the new Chief of Staff will bring his wealth of experience to bear to ensure growth and development across the country.
“I urge you to take up the new task with all sense of responsibility and be assured of our support. Your appointment as the Chief of Staff to our dear President was received with joy.”
Governor Sani Bello enjoined Professor Gambari to discharge his duties without fear or favour and prayed to God to grant him the wisdom needed to pilot the Affairs of the new office.
He urged the new CoS to carry everyone along and assured him of the support of Governors in the North-central geopolitical zone as well as the government of Niger State.
The new CoS has served the country in various capacities in the past. He was Minister of External Affairs in Nigeria (1984-1985) and subsequently Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Nigeria to the United Nations (1990-1999).
Professor Gambari also served as Joint AU/UN Special Representative in Darfur and Head of UNAMID (2010-2012).
Before his present appointment, Prof Gambari is the Chairperson of the Panel of Eminent Persons of the African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM).