Chief of Staff to President Bola Tinubu, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, has opened up about the challenges of his role, describing it as the toughest job he has ever had.
Gbajabiamila, who previously served as Speaker of the House of Representatives, revealed that working with Tinubu is demanding due to the president’s strength, knowledge, and rigorous work ethic.
Speaking at a conversation, book reading, and signing event at the Capital Club, Victoria Island, Gbajabiamila admitted that nothing could have prepared him for the complexity of his new role.
“Nothing in this world can prepare you for the role of Chief of Staff,” he confessed. “First, you’d lose your freedom.”
Gbajabiamila noted that unlike his time as Speaker, where he was his own boss and could take breaks to recharge, the role of Chief of Staff requires constant availability.
“Now, there’s a boss,” he stated, referring to Tinubu. “One who is strong and knows his onions and even knows more than you.”
He emphasized the pressure of meeting the expectations of the president, who is known for his strategic mind and deep understanding of governance.
Juggling Expectations and Challenges
Gbajabiamila detailed the stark contrast between his former position as Speaker and his current role.
“As Speaker, you are dealing with 359 other colleagues,” he explained. “But as Chief of Staff, you are dealing with 200 million Nigerians with different needs at different times.”
He acknowledged that the magnitude of responsibility is overwhelming, given Nigeria’s diverse and complex socio-political landscape.
Why He Backed Abbas for Speaker
Gbajabiamila also spoke on the politics behind the 2023 speakership election, revealing why he supported Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, despite Abbas being the least close to him among the contenders.
“When the election of Speaker was coming, everyone who contested was close to me, except the incumbent,” he disclosed. “But I wanted to leave a legacy that I would be proud of.”
Gbajabiamila said he chose Abbas because of his capacity and pedigree, stressing that his decision was driven by merit and the desire to ensure effective leadership in the House of Representatives.
“Other contenders were equally qualified, but I knew him,” he said. “When I put him forward, every member of the House fell in line. Today, they call to thank me for his leadership.”
Speaker Abbas Praises Gbajabiamila
In response, Speaker Tajudeen Abbas praised Gbajabiamila’s leadership and humility, noting that he never interfered with his role as Speaker.
“Unlike the typical tradition in political parlance, the former Speaker never attempted to throw his weight or influence around,” Abbas stated.
He commended Gbajabiamila for his support and guidance, which he said were instrumental in his emergence as Speaker.
Reflecting on Political Battles
Reflecting on his political journey, Gbajabiamila recounted his earlier attempts at the speakership, revealing how he lost his first bid in 2015 when the opposition endorsed Yakubu Dogara.
“There were plans to remove him, but I never attended any of such meetings,” he revealed. “I told them what was done was done. Let’s move forward.”
He believes his decision to accept defeat gracefully contributed to his eventual emergence as Speaker in 2019.
Gbajabiamila also shared the challenges he faced during his third election into the House, following his opposition to former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s third term bid.
“The opposition played it up, saying if I could oppose Obasanjo’s third term, why should I be allowed to enjoy a third term in the House?” he recalled.
Despite the intense political pressure, he secured victory and went on to win subsequent elections, serving six terms before becoming Speaker and now Chief of Staff.
On Leadership and Legacy
Gbajabiamila emphasized the importance of continuous learning for effective leadership.
“My favourite book is the Quran,” he said, adding, “However, to be a successful leader, you must read, and it’s a process. It does not end. You must continue to read.”
