‘Nigeria cannot afford to waste El-Rufai’s knowledge, experience’ – Makarfi
A former gubernatorial candidate in Kaduna State, Hayatuddeen Lawal Makarfi, has emphasized the importance of Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai’s expertise in governance and reforms, stating that Nigeria cannot afford to overlook such talents due to political disagreements.
In a statement released recently, Makarfi, who ran for governor in the 2023 election, referred to El-Rufai as “one of the most misunderstood political figures” of Nigeria’s Fourth Republic. He expressed concerns over El-Rufai’s continued detention, asserting it appears politically motivated. There are unverified claims suggesting that the former governor is being kept in isolation until after the inauguration on May 29, 2027.
“Nigeria needs experienced leaders capable of making tough decisions and implementing necessary reforms, particularly as the nation grapples with pressing economic, security, and governance challenges,” Makarfi stated. He underscored that the investment made in El-Rufai’s leadership should not be discarded.
Makarfi detailed El-Rufai’s impressive educational background, which includes studies at Ahmadu Bello University, the University of London, and Harvard Kennedy School. He also highlighted El-Rufai’s significant contributions to the private sector and public service, particularly during his term as Director-General of the Bureau of Public Enterprises, where he played a key role in telecommunications reforms that dismantled the monopoly of the Nigerian Telecommunications Limited (NITEL), leading to the rise of the GSM industry.
Additionally, Makarfi noted El-Rufai’s accomplishments as Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, where he championed the Abuja Master Plan and established the Abuja Geographic Information System (AGIS). He remarked that El-Rufai’s strategies in Kaduna focused on empowering government institutions and enhancing the capacity of ministries and agencies.
The reforms initiated by El-Rufai spanned various sectors, including education, fiscal management, urban renewal, and local government administration. Makarfi argued that effective leadership in states requires individuals who are willing to confront entrenched interests and accept short-term criticism for long-term gains.
“Nigeria must not waste the wealth of knowledge and experience El-Rufai possesses, especially in these times that demand economic reform, robust security frameworks, and improved governance,” he added. He called for El-Rufai’s release and reintegration into political life, drawing comparisons to international leaders such as Lee Kuan Yew, Paul Kagame, and Julius Nyerere, whom he regards as successful reformers.
