The Nigerian Senate’s attention has once again turned to the case of a nominee, Hannatu Musawa, whose appointment was rejected three years ago due to her failure to provide proof of participating in the mandatory National Youth Service scheme. Former President Muhammadu Buhari had nominated Musawa for a position as national commissioner representing Nigeria’s North-west geopolitical zone on the National Pension Commission (PENCOM) board in September 2020.

Back in October 2020, the Senate declined to approve her appointment based on a report from the Committee on Establishment and Public Service Matters. The committee stated that due to the absence of evidence regarding her completion of the national service after university, she was deemed ineligible for public office. Consequently, her confirmation was put on hold.

The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) program is obligatory for Nigerian graduates under the age of 30 and is a requirement for both government and private sector jobs. Skipping the service can result in penalties, including imprisonment and fines.

Musawa’s nomination was withdrawn by President Buhari, who later nominated Umaru Farouk Aminu to replace her. Aminu’s appointment was confirmed by the Senate in December 2020. Notably, the senator who led the committee that disqualified Musawa is no longer in the Senate, but his deputy, Barinada Mpigi, remains an active member.

In a recent confirmation hearing on August 1, senators failed to question Musawa thoroughly. She presented a file without including her CV and degree certificates, raising questions about her educational qualifications and NYSC status. Her LinkedIn profile lists her degrees, but the evidence was absent from her file. She included her Senior School Certificate and her membership in the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators, London, as well as a portrait of herself.

Despite these discrepancies, some individuals argue that Musawa’s educational qualifications are sufficient for the position she was nominated for. However, the debate continues on whether the NYSC Act’s requirements are still relevant for appointments to public office.

Source: Premium Times