In light of Nnamdi Kanu’s ongoing detention, President Bola Tinubu’s recent appointment of Bianca Ojukwu as Minister of State for Foreign Affairs has ignited discussions among stakeholders. Many view this move as a step towards fostering reconciliation between the Southeast and Nigeria as a whole.
Atlantic Reporters notes that Tinubu’s midterm cabinet reshuffle included five new appointments, seven removals, and ten reassignments.
Bianca joins other ministers from the Southeast, such as Doris Uzoka-Anite (Minister of State for Finance), Uche Nnaji (Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology), and David Umahi (Minister of Works).
Bianca’s Appointment: A Step Toward Reconciliation
While some perceive Bianca’s new role as a strategic initiative, Katchi Ononuju, Director General of the Heritage Centre, emphasized the president’s awareness of the need for national healing. He stated, “The President recognizes that his election was supported by a political party and is now focused on uniting the country.”
Ononuju pointed out that past strategies are ineffective now, and unity is key, especially with the President’s eyes on a second term. “However, we must understand that Bianca is not a solution in herself. True inclusion requires action, not just appointments. She represents a memory rather than the current realities.”
He acknowledged the thoughtful nature of the appointment but stressed that creating hope must be backed by genuine actions. “It’s crucial that the President treats Bianca in a way that her constituents feel included—this goes beyond mere rhetoric, as past administrations have often fallen short.”
Ononuju also commented on the possibility of a political resolution regarding Kanu’s situation, stating that only the government can facilitate such a decision, irrespective of Bianca’s influence.
“The Southeastern leadership has approached the Minister of Justice about negotiating Kanu’s release, and we’ll see how that unfolds.”
He added, “Kanu’s case is fundamentally a matter between him and the state. Past presidents have negotiated releases, and given the current dynamics, it’s possible for Tinubu to consider this.”