Enugu: Members of the United Professionals for Umuigbo Development Initiative have commended President Bola Tinubu for appointing Mr. Obinna Ihedioha as an Executive Director of the Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS).
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the group, also known as Igbo United Professionals, expressed their commendation through a statement signed by its Publicity Secretary, Mr. Collins Ikenna, which was made available to newsmen in Enugu. Ihedioha, representing the South-East, has been appointed as the Executive Director for People, Stakeholders, and Communications at the NRS.
Ikenna highlighted that this appointment aligns with the provisions of the NRS Establishment Act, which stipulates the inclusion of six Executive Directors, representing each of the country’s geopolitical zones. He condemned the calls made by a political group, the South East APC Youths, to withdraw Ihedioha’s appointment, labeling them as politically motivated and contrary to the principles of meritocracy.
The group’s Publicity Secretary emphasized that such actions go against Igbo culture, heritage, and values, and pose a threat to unity among Igbo professionals. One of the organization’s key objectives is to foster unity, professional development, and socio-economic empowerment among Igbo professionals through networking and capacity-building initiatives.
Ikenna further described President Tinubu as a leader who prioritizes competence over party loyalty when appointing individuals to sensitive positions. He lauded Tinubu for his focus on efficiency and service delivery for the benefit of all.
The group, through Ikenna, described Ihedioha as a professional with a proven track record and significant experience in both public and private institutions. His recommendation and subsequent appointment were based on merit rather than political patronage. Ihedioha’s nearly 25 years of experience spans project finance, infrastructure investment, governance, and public policy. He previously served as Senior Adviser and Head of Strategy at the Nigerian Sovereign Investment Authority and played crucial roles in establishing several national institutions, including InfraCredit, the Nigeria Mortgage Refinance Company, and the Development Bank of Nigeria.
Ikenna urged the South East APC Youths to refrain from actions that could foster discord among Igbo people and advised them to address their grievances constructively instead of criticizing Ihedioha.