Tinubu Appoints Yari as Campaign DG, Enitan as Civil Service Head

As Nigeria gears up for the January 2027 elections, the political chessboard is already moving. President Bola Tinubu just made two major appointments that will shape both his reelection bid and the federal bureaucracy. The moves send a strong message about his strategy for the next few years.

Yari Takes Charge of the APC Campaign

The biggest political shockwave came this weekend. President Tinubu officially constituted the All Progressives Congress (APC) Presidential Campaign Council. He appointed former Zamfara State Governor, Senator Abdulaziz Yari, as the Director-General.

Yari is no stranger to tough political battles. He will lead the charge to keep the APC in power. Tinubu himself will serve as the council's chairman, while Vice President Kashim Shettima takes the role of vice-chairman. Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma steps in as the council’s secretary.

This lineup shows the APC is taking no chances. With 2027 election alignments as opposition parties join forces, the ruling party needs tested veterans at the wheel. Yari quickly accepted the appointment, promising to tackle the responsibility head-on. The official campaign roster, published by The State House, also features political heavyweights like Adams Oshiomhole and Godswill Akpabio in key mobilization roles.

A New Boss for the Civil Service

While the political machinery gears up, the engine of governance is also getting a new driver. President Tinubu has officially named Mr. Abel Olumuyiwa Enitan as the new Head of the Civil Service of the Federation.

Enitan takes over from Didi Esther Walson-Jack, who is retiring after reaching the statutory age of 60. His appointment takes effect on August 27, 2026.

If you follow federal administrative moves, you know Enitan brings serious credentials. Born in Osun State, he holds a degree in Finance and Banking from the University of Lagos. Before this massive promotion, he spent over seven years as a Permanent Secretary. His most recent post was in the Federal Ministry of Education. He also handled complex portfolios in the Ministry of Police Affairs and Humanitarian Affairs.

As Tinubu appoints a new head of civil service, federal workers are watching closely. The civil service needs reforms, better welfare, and improved digital infrastructure. Enitan’s deep administrative experience means he knows exactly where the system's pain points are.

The Road Ahead

These two appointments serve very different purposes. Yari's job is purely political. He must build a winning coalition and sell the administration's achievements to voters. Enitan’s job is strictly professional. He must ensure the government bureaucracy actually works for the Nigerian people.

Both men face massive pressure. The next few months will reveal if Tinubu placed his bets on the right leaders.