Members of the United Professionals for Umuigbo Development Initiative, also known as Igbo United Professionals, have commended President Bola Tinubu for appointing Mr Obinna Ihedioha as an Executive Director of the Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS).
The group gave the commendation in a statement signed by its Publicity Secretary, Mr Collins Ikenna, and made available to journalists in Enugu on Saturday.
Ihedioha, who represents the South-East geopolitical zone, was recently appointed Executive Director, People, Stakeholders and Communications at the NRS.
According to Ikenna, the appointment aligns with the provisions of the Nigeria Revenue Service Establishment Act, which stipulates the appointment of six Executive Directors, one from each of Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones.
The group, however, condemned calls by a political organisation, the South East APC Youths, demanding the withdrawal of Ihedioha’s appointment, describing the move as politically motivated and contrary to the principles of meritocracy.
Ikenna said such actions run against Igbo cultural values and undermine unity among Igbo professionals.
“One of our core objectives is to promote unity, professional development and socio-economic empowerment among Igbo professionals through networking and capacity-building initiatives,” he said.
He further described President Tinubu as a leader who prioritises competence over party loyalty in appointments to sensitive national positions.
“This is the quality of a leader who desires efficiency and effective service delivery for the overall good of the people,” Ikenna stated.
The group also described Ihedioha as a seasoned professional with proven capacity and an impressive track record in both the public and private sectors.
“His recommendation and eventual appointment were based purely on merit and not political patronage.
“Ihedioha has nearly 25 years’ experience in project finance, infrastructure investment, governance and public policy. He previously served as Senior Adviser and Head of Strategy at the Nigerian Sovereign Investment Authority,” he said.
Ikenna added that Ihedioha played key roles in the establishment of critical national institutions, including InfraCredit, the Nigeria Mortgage Refinance Company, the Development Bank of Nigeria and other strategic investment platforms.
The group urged the South East APC Youths to desist from actions capable of promoting discord among Igbo people and advised them to pursue grievances through constructive engagement rather than public opposition to qualified appointees.
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