Tinubu revokes appointment of 24-year-old FERMA board chairman after public outcry

The candidacy of 24-year-old engineer Imam Kashim Imam to lead the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA)’s board of directors has been withdrawn by Bola Tinubu.

On Thursday, October 19, the presidential spokeswoman, Ajuri Ngelale, announced this in a statement.

On Friday, October 13, Imam’s appointment was made public (read more here). The 24-year-old was appointed by the president “for a term of four (4) years, which shall be renewable, in accordance with Section 2(3) of the FERMA Amendment Act, 2007”.
His selection raised questions since, according to many, he lacked the necessary experience for the position.

Ngelale announced the withdrawal of the nomination with immediate effect after hearing the responses.

Although no reason was given by the presidency for the decision, Ngelale said all other appointments to the Board and Executive Management team of FERMA are not affected by this directive.

The statement read, “President Bola Tinubu has directed the withdrawal of the nomination of Engr. Imam Kashim Imam to serve as the Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA).

“The President’s withdrawal of the above-mentioned nomination is directed with immediate effect.

“All other appointments to the Board and Executive Management team of FERMA are not affected by this directive.”