Former Senator representing Bayelsa East Senatorial District, Ben Murray-Bruce, has called on President Bola Tinubu to bring more bold and results-oriented individuals into his administration to accelerate reforms and tackle longstanding national challenges.
In a post shared on his X handle, Murray-Bruce argued that genuine support for the President should include the courage to offer honest advice rather than engage in blind praise.
According to him, Nigeria needs more public officials willing to challenge established interests, confront difficult problems and pursue meaningful reforms regardless of political consequences.
Using the expression “mad men” to describe such individuals, Murray-Bruce clarified that he was referring to people who are courageous enough to disrupt dysfunctional systems, reject mediocrity and focus relentlessly on delivering results for citizens.
He said the country requires leaders who are prepared to make difficult decisions and pursue reforms even when those decisions may be unpopular among political elites.
The former senator identified Central Bank of Nigeria Governor, Olayemi Cardoso, and National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, as examples of officials who fit that description.
While acknowledging that some Nigerians may disagree with specific policies introduced by the Central Bank under Cardoso, Murray-Bruce said the institution has witnessed improvements in discipline, credibility and policy direction since his appointment.
He also praised Ribadu’s approach to security management, noting that despite ongoing security challenges, there appears to be greater coordination and strategic focus within Nigeria’s security architecture.
Murray-Bruce, however, maintained that two reform-minded officials are not enough for a country with more than 200 million people.
He particularly called for similar leadership in the petroleum sector, arguing that Nigeria’s continued dependence on imported refined petroleum products despite its vast crude oil reserves remains unacceptable.
According to him, decades of investment in refineries and extensive petroleum expertise should translate into a more productive and self-sufficient energy sector.
He urged the Tinubu administration to prioritise the rehabilitation and profitable operation of the Port Harcourt, Warri and Kaduna refineries, stressing that Nigeria can no longer afford to underutilise its natural resources.
Murray-Bruce concluded by encouraging the government to embrace innovative and unconventional thinking capable of driving sustainable national development.
