Dr. Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, a respected elder statesman and former spokesperson of the Northern Elders Forum (NEF), has tendered his resignation from the position of Special Adviser on Political Matters in the Office of the Vice President, Kashim Shettima. According to high-level sources within the presidency, his resignation was submitted quietly around two weeks ago, citing personal reasons. As of the time of this report, it remains unclear whether the presidency has formally accepted his resignation.

While the official explanation for his departure remains vague, Baba-Ahmed’s exit has stirred discussions in political circles, particularly due to his longstanding role as a vocal advocate for Northern interests and his brief but notable stint within the Tinubu-led administration.

A Brief Tenure in Government

Dr. Baba-Ahmed was appointed in September 2023 as part of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s strategy to integrate prominent figures from Northern Nigeria into his administration, a move seen as crucial in the post-election political balancing act. His role, based in the Office of the Vice President, involved navigating the complex terrain of national politics, engaging stakeholders, and offering strategic political counsel.

Throughout his nearly 18-month tenure, Baba-Ahmed represented the presidency at various public forums and policy dialogues. One of the most prominent was his participation at the national conference themed “Strengthening Nigeria’s Democracy: Pathway to Good Governance and Political Integrity,” which took place in Abuja from January 28 to 29, 2025. His speeches often emphasized the importance of national unity, institutional integrity, and regional equity.

However, his time in office was not without controversy. His outspoken views, particularly in defense of the Northern Elders Forum—a group often critical of the Tinubu administration—placed him at odds with key government figures.

Fallout with Matawalle and Tensions Within

One of the most visible flashpoints during Baba-Ahmed’s tenure came in April 2024, when he clashed publicly with the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Mohammed Matawalle. The conflict followed Baba-Ahmed’s defense of the NEF after Matawalle dismissed the forum as a “political paperweight.”

The NEF had, at the time, issued a strongly worded statement expressing disappointment in the Tinubu administration, claiming that the North had erred in its electoral support. Baba-Ahmed, maintaining loyalty to the forum’s ideals, challenged Matawalle’s stance, suggesting that ministers should focus on showcasing their achievements instead of attacking perceived critics.

“Scathing criticism of NEF by the junior minister of defense, Matawalle, is ill-advised. He could have done a better job for this administration if he identified contributions of especially northern ministers and other appointees like me to improving security and reducing poverty in the North,” Baba-Ahmed had stated.

Matawalle, in turn, responded forcefully. He reminded Baba-Ahmed of his obligation to defend the administration, not to shield or endorse organizations critical of government performance. The minister’s statement emphasized that appointees had a duty to promote the government’s efforts, especially amid what he described as unjustified attacks cloaked in ethnic and regional rhetoric.

This public disagreement exposed deeper fault lines within the administration, especially among appointees from the North. It also raised questions about the balancing act expected from government officials with longstanding ties to regional or advocacy groups.

A Storied Career in Public Service

Dr. Hakeem Baba-Ahmed’s career spans over four decades of public service, advocacy, and political commentary. Born on September 11, 1955, in Kaduna State, he is widely respected for his intellect, administrative experience, and principled stance on national issues.

He earned his first degree from the prestigious Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, and later pursued advanced degrees at the London School of Economics and the University of Sussex in the United Kingdom, culminating in a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD).

Baba-Ahmed began his career as a lecturer at the then-University of Sokoto (now Usmanu Danfodiyo University), before joining the Kaduna State Civil Service. His competence led him to the Federal Civil Service, where he rose to the position of Permanent Secretary, serving in several ministries, including Commerce and Industry and The Presidency.

In one of his most notable appointments, he served as Secretary to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), where he contributed significantly to reforms in Nigeria’s electoral process. He also served as Secretary to the Kaduna State Government, further cementing his reputation as a public servant with national reach.

In recognition of his contributions to national development, he was conferred the national honor of Officer of the Federal Republic (OFR).

Voice of the North

After retiring from the civil service, Baba-Ahmed transitioned into advocacy and public commentary. He became a prominent figure within the Northern Elders Forum, serving as its Director of Publicity and Advocacy. In this capacity, he was known for his eloquent and sometimes blunt assessments of national policies, particularly those affecting the Northern region.

His time at the NEF saw him defend the region’s interests while maintaining a commitment to national unity. Though critics often accused the forum of being overly critical, supporters viewed Baba-Ahmed’s statements as necessary counterbalances in a highly centralized political environment.

His dual role—as a member of government and a vocal defender of NEF positions—was always going to be difficult to sustain. Political analysts believe this tension may have contributed, at least in part, to his resignation.

Implications of His Exit

Dr. Baba-Ahmed’s resignation comes at a time when the Tinubu administration is facing mounting criticism over economic hardship, insecurity, and slow policy implementation. His departure removes a potentially moderating voice from within the administration—one that could offer both insider insight and critical feedback rooted in grassroots perspectives.

Some observers see the resignation as a loss for the government, particularly in the area of managing public perception in the North. Others argue it may pave the way for a clearer alignment between appointees and the core policy direction of the administration.

Looking Ahead

Whether or not Baba-Ahmed returns to active political advocacy through the NEF or chooses to remain a quiet statesman, his voice will likely continue to shape discourse in the country. His experience, education, and reputation ensure that he remains a key figure in national dialogue.

For now, political watchers await an official confirmation from the presidency regarding the acceptance of his resignation and whether a replacement will soon be announced. Regardless of what comes next, Dr. Hakeem Baba-Ahmed leaves behind a legacy of service rooted in principle, regional advocacy, and a deep-seated belief in a better Nigeria.