Chief of Staff to President Bola Tinubu, Femi Gbajabiamila, has stated that he will not be deterred from his duties following allegations surrounding the Presidential Foreign Investment Promotion Council (PFIPC). Speaking in Lagos, Gbajabiamila said investigations by government agencies cleared him of wrongdoing. He made these comments at the 2026 Gbaja Mega Empowerment programme, where 5,000 constituents received cash grants, vehicles, and other support. Gbajabiamila reflected on the controversy, stating that it subjected him to unexpected scrutiny.
The controversy began with investigations into the PFIPC, which was linked to allegations involving Gbajabiamila's office. He appeared before the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) in July 2026 as part of the investigation. According to Gbajabiamila, the Nigerian Police, DSS, and ICPC cleared him of any wrongdoing, with investigative reports in the public domain. The experience, he said, showed the sacrifices that come with seeking public office, particularly for young Nigerians aspiring to political leadership.
Gbajabiamila thanked President Tinubu for allowing due process to take its course rather than acting on allegations before the conclusion of investigations. He stated that many people wanted the President to rush to judgment, but he refused and insisted on due process. Gbajabiamila maintained that the controversy would not affect his commitment to the administration. He emphasized that no amount of money, blackmail, or lies would detract him from his work.
Gbajabiamila also warned individuals allegedly using his name to defraud members of the public. He stated that the law would catch up with those involved. The Chief of Staff then discussed the empowerment programme, which was worth about N1.15 billion and targeted approximately 5,000 beneficiaries in Surulere. The programme included cash grants, vehicles, and other items.
A total of 3,905 beneficiaries received N250,000 each, while 348 others received N500,000 each. The programme also featured the distribution of 61 electric vehicles, 50 electric tricycles, 60 minibuses, and 100 laptops. Other items included four Toyota HiAce 18-seater buses, two security patrol vehicles, a medical ambulance, and two additional vehicles.
Gbajabiamila explained that the programme was postponed from June to enable organisers to properly verify submissions from wards, community-based associations, and trade groups. He emphasized that the initiative also supported the Gajarai transportation service, which provides free transportation for students and discounted services for elderly residents. The programme's emphasis on electric vehicles was deliberate, aiming to support cleaner transportation while creating economic opportunities.
The initiative is part of efforts to promote renewable and clean energy, with plans underway to install electric vehicle charging stations. Gbajabiamila noted that Nigerian automobile companies are producing and assembling electric and CNG-powered vehicles globally, creating jobs, providing cheaper transport, and improving air quality. The programme demonstrates the administration's commitment to sustainable development and economic empowerment.
Key points
- Femi Gbajabiamila cleared of wrongdoing in PFIPC probe
- Gbajabiamila vows to remain focused on duties despite allegations
- 2026 Gbaja Mega Empowerment programme supports 5,000 constituents with N1.15 billion initiative
