In a recent Senate session on February 29, concerns were raised during the confirmation of nominees for the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) board.
President Bola Tinubu had previously submitted the names of Urum and four others for confirmation. During the confirmation process, former Governor of Abia State, Senator Orji Kalu, revealed that one of the nominees, Urum, expressed reservations about accepting the appointment. Kalu informed the Senate that his constituent had communicated via phone, declining the offer due to potential conflicts with his current role as a consultant with the World Bank.
“The nominee conveyed concerns about the role conflicting with his responsibilities as a consultant to the World Bank, Federal Government agencies, and other private companies,” Kalu stated.
Despite this, the Senate proceeded to confirm the appointment of four other members to the CBN Board of Directors. The confirmed directors are Robert Agbede, Ado Yakubu Wanka, Professor Murtala Sabo Sagagi, and Mrs. Muslimat Olanike Aliyu.
The revelation of concerns surrounding Urum’s acceptance adds a layer of complexity to the appointments, raising questions about the potential clash of responsibilities and interests.