Dr. Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, a key figure in the Office of the Vice President, has stepped down from his role as Special Adviser on Political Matters, according to sources within the presidency.
The former spokesperson of the Northern Elders Forum reportedly submitted his resignation nearly two weeks ago, citing “personal reasons,” though further details remain undisclosed. As of press time, the presidency has not officially confirmed whether his resignation has been accepted.
Baba-Ahmed had been appointed to the post in September 2023 and was frequently seen participating in top-level engagements on behalf of the presidency. His departure adds to a growing list of recent exits from the administration’s senior advisory team.
Just a few months earlier, on September 7, 2024, Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, also exited his roles, including positions as Special Presidential Envoy on Climate Action and Chairman of the Presidential Steering Committee on Project Evergreen. Ngelale said his decision was influenced by urgent family health issues.
“While I fully appreciate that the ship of state waits for no man, this agonizing decision… was taken after significant consultations with my family… as a vexatious medical situation has worsened at home,” he explained in a statement. “I look forward to returning to full-time national service when time, healing, and fate permit. I respectfully ask for some privacy for my family and me during this time.”
With Baba-Ahmed becoming the second high-profile adviser to exit the Tinubu administration, speculation is beginning to stir about possible realignments or shifts within the presidency’s inner circle.
