Fashola Acknowledges Pantami’s Precision and Annoyance Factor
In a keynote address during the public presentation of Prof. Isa Ali Pantami’s book, ‘A Scholar’s Journey: Navigating Academia,’ former Minister of Works and Housing, Babatunde Raji Fashola, acknowledged Pantami’s meticulous approach during their time together in the Federal Executive Council (FEC).
Fashola emphasized Pantami’s dedication to accuracy and his annoyance factor due to his commitment to getting things right.
Pantami’s Role as ‘Mr. Compliance’ in Buhari Administration
Fashola described Pantami as the embodiment of “Mr. Compliance” within the Buhari administration, specifically during his tenure as Minister for Communication and Digital Economy from 2019 to 2023.
Despite being perceived as annoying by some, Pantami’s impact on the accuracy of memoranda and cabinet records was significant.
Fashola highlighted the positive influence of what he termed the ‘Pantami effect’ on ensuring compliance with necessary standards and certifications.
Annoyance Translates to Improved Records
While Pantami’s meticulousness might have been perceived as annoying, Fashola asserted that their records and documents were undoubtedly better off due to the precision introduced by Pantami. As the ‘Mr. Compliance’ of the cabinet, Pantami scrutinized technology-related memoranda, ensuring they possessed the required NITDA certification.
Additionally, he played a crucial role in aligning visions and missions, making a notable impact on the quality of the administration’s documentation.
Importance of Factual Books in Preserving History
Fashola underscored the significance of books that uphold factual accuracy in a time where truth is challenged by fake news and history faces threats from revisionists.
He emphasized the importance of preserving the foundations of civilization through literature that reports history and events accurately.
Dignitaries Attend Book Presentation
The public presentation of Pantami’s book was attended by prominent figures, including Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum; Gombe State Governor, Alhaji Muhammad Inuwa Yahaya; Nasarawa State Governor, Engr. Abdullahi Sule; and former Gombe State Governor, Alhaji Danjuma Goje.
Other notable attendees included former Ekiti State Governor, Dr Kayode Fayemi; former Aviation Minister, Femi Fani-Kayode; and former Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission (NUC), Prof. Abubakar Adamu Rasheed.