The first interim chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Bisi Akande, has commended President Bola Tinubu for appointing former governor Goyega Oyetola as the minister of marine and blue economy.
Akande said the appointment of Oyetola has rekindled the hope of the people of Osun state.
He said this in Abuja during a reception party organised in honour of the new minister.
He said: “I congratulate Osun state that the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria agreed to honour our State by appointing a minister in the personality of Adegboyega Oyetola.
“Those who have been in Osun State for a long time will know that he deserves the honour and by giving us (Osun State) this honour, the hope of our people is rekindled. I wish Oyetola and our leaders in the State the best of luck and a successful tenure.”
Also commenting on the appointment, a former deputy governor of Osun state and the immediate past national secretary of APC, Iyiola Omisore said the appointment would enable the new minister exhibit his talent.
He said: “I believe that we are in a new era of a new creation and Oyetola is a round peg in a round hole. I know that by the grace of God, he will show his true colour because ruling a state is not like ruling a federal system but I am sure this is an opportunity to show his talent and so, I congratulate Oyetola for this honour”.
A former governor of Zamfara state, Ahmad Yerima said Nigerians were not surprised by Oyetola’s appointment.
He said: “I am sure Nigerians were not surprised that there was a last-minute change in the portfolio because we believe that with what the President has seen in creating this new ministry, he believes he needs Oyetola to handle the assignment he is going to give out as regards the ministry. I pray that Allah guides you (minister) till the end of your tenure.”
Responding to wishes, the minister said he believes he will turn things around in the ministry, though the assignment comes with lots of responsibilities.
Oyetola said: “I feel challenged to be made a minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria because it comes with lots of responsibilities but I know God will help me. I am heading a brand new ministry which means I will have to start from scratch but I believe I will turn things around.
“Over 30 million jobs are created globally from marine and blue economy. So, I believe we will turn around the fortune of maritime activities for revenue generation.”
He also sought prayers to assist him in his new assignment. “I need your prayers to get me going. I believe in the efficacy of prayer, so please pray for us.”
Some of the dignitaries in attendance to honour the new minister are; The Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwolu, Sen Musiliu Obanikoro, Jack Rich, Prof. Olu Aina, APC National Secretary; Ajibola Basiru, Oluwo of Iwo; Oba Abdulrasheed Akanbi and other traditional rulers.