By Adesakin Adefemi
President Bola Tinubu has appointed Ibrahim Kabiru Masari as his Special Adviser on Political Affairs, elevating him from his previous role as Senior Special Assistant on Political Affairs in a move seen as a strategic strengthening of his political team.
The appointment was announced on Thursday by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, and is being hailed as a testament to Masari’s unwavering loyalty and dedication to the President and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Masari, a close ally of the President, has been a key figure in Tinubu’s political circle and played significant roles in APC activities, particularly in the North-West region, where he is widely respected as a seasoned politician and grassroots mobiliser.
Masari’s experience within the party structure and long-standing relationship with President Tinubu are expected to further strengthen political coordination between the Presidency and party leaders, and boost the party’s fortunes in the region. He previously served as the APC welfare secretary during Senator Adams Oshiomhole’s tenure as party chairman, where he distinguished himself as a shrewd operator and effective crisis manager.
As Special Adviser, Masari will work alongside Alhaji Yau Darazo, whom Tinubu appointed in July 2023, and will be expected to play a key role in shaping the President’s political agenda and strategy. The position of Special Adviser is more senior than Senior Special Assistant in the presidential hierarchy, with Special Advisers typically handling more strategic responsibilities and having direct access to the President.
Masari’s appointment is seen as a reward for his loyalty and service to the President and the party, and is expected to boost morale among party loyalists and strengthen the party’s grip on power. He is widely known within the APC as a grassroots mobiliser and political organiser with strong ties in northern Nigeria, and his elevation is expected to further cement the President’s influence in the region.
The appointment does not require Senate confirmation, as presidential aides serve at the pleasure of the President. Masari’s elevation reflects his expanded responsibilities in supporting the President’s political engagements and coordination with key stakeholders within the ruling party and across the broader political landscape.
The President’s decision to promote Masari is expected to send a strong signal to party members and opponents alike, and underscores Tinubu’s emphasis on strengthening party structures and maintaining close relationships with key stakeholders.
Masari’s experience and network are expected to play a crucial role in Tinubu’s political strategy, especially in the North-West region, where the party is seeking to consolidate its gains in the 2027 elections.
The move is also seen as part of Tinubu’s broader effort to revamp his administration and inject fresh energy into his team, as he prepares for the challenges ahead.
