The Computer Guild of Nigeria has called on President Bola Tinubu to appoint a Christian as the Communications Minister.
The CGN highlighted the fact that during the eight-year political dispensation of President Muhammadu Buhari, both Communications Ministers appointed were Muslims. Barrister Adebayo Shittu and the recently outgone Communications Minister, Professor Isa Pantami, were both followers of the Islamic faith.
Our correspondent reports that CGN is a leading professional association representing the interests of the information technology and communication sectors in Nigeria.
In a press release issued on Wednesday, the President of the Computer Guild of Nigeria, Wole Adedoyin, expressed the organisation’s concern about the lack of religious diversity in the leadership of the Ministry of Communications.
Adedoyin’s statement partly read, “We believe that it is crucial for the Nigerian government to uphold religious inclusivity and fairness in its appointments. The continuous appointment of Muslim Communications Ministers neglects the significant contributions that Christians can make in shaping the country’s communication sector.”
The CGN acknowledged the importance of diversity in governance, particularly in a multi-religious and multicultural society like Nigeria. By appointing a Christian Communications Minister, President Tinubu would demonstrate his commitment to promoting unity and inclusivity among Nigerians of all faiths, adding that the CGN firmly believes that such a move would foster a more harmonious and representative government, thereby enhancing communication policies that cater to the needs of all citizens.
“Furthermore, the Computer Guild of Nigeria highlights the valuable expertise and perspectives that Christians bring to the table in the field of communications. With their unique insights and experiences, Christian professionals possess the potential to contribute greatly to the development and implementation of policies that advance Nigeria’s communication infrastructure and services.
“The CGN encourages President Tinubu to seize this opportunity to bridge the religious divide and promote social cohesion by ensuring that the next Communications Minister is a Christian. Such a decision would reflect the principles of fairness, equality, and religious tolerance that are essential for the growth and prosperity of Nigeria.
“The Computer Guild of Nigeria remains committed to advocating for inclusivity, diversity, and equal representation within the Nigerian government and society at large. As an organisation dedicated to the advancement of the nation’s technology and communication sectors, the CGN stands ready to support and collaborate with the government in achieving its goals of progress and unity,” the statement added.
