Kebbi governor's labour background suits Tinubu's campaign role, says aide

Kebbi State Governor Nasir Idris's appointment to lead the Directorate of Labour Union Relations within President Bola Tinubu's 2027 Campaign Council is a strategic move, according to his Special Adviser on Communication and Strategy, Abdullahi Idris. The aide described the appointment as "a clear case of putting a round peg in a round hole," emphasizing Governor Idris's suitability due to his extensive background in organized labour. "Comrade Governor Idris brings decades of labour leadership experience to this responsibility," Abdullahi stated, referencing his past roles as Chairman of the Nigerian Union of Teachers at local and state levels, National Treasurer and President of NUT, and Deputy National President of the Nigeria Labour Congress.

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a clear case of putting a round peg in a round hole.

Governor Idris's contributions to the labour movement are noted, including significant reforms such as extending teachers' retirement age from 60 to 65 and their years of service from 35 to 40. He has also been recognized for his ability to mediate industrial disputes between government and labour unions, a skill acknowledged by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris.

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Comrade Governor Idris brings decades of labour leadership experience to this responsibility, having served as Chairman of the Nigerian Union of Teachers at both local and state levels, National Treasurer and President of NUT, and later Deputy National President of the Nigeria Labour Congress.

Prominent labour leaders, including Ayuba Wabba and Joe Ajaero, have reportedly sought Governor Idris's counsel on national labour matters, underscoring his influence. Politically, Governor Idris is credited with strengthening the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kebbi State through mobilization and reconciliation efforts. His early endorsement of President Tinubu for a second term further highlights his commitment to the administration's agenda. Abdullahi expressed strong confidence that the governor's combined labour and political expertise will be instrumental in achieving the campaign's objectives.

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His capacity to build bridges between government and organised labour has been repeatedly demonstrated. His role in resolving labour disputes has also been acknowledged by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris.