By Oladipo Oluwatosin
In politics, as in life, “ọrọ tí a bá fẹ́ fi ọwọ́ ṣe, a kọ́kọ́ fi ọgbọ́n ṣe e”; what the hand must execute, wisdom must first design. It is in this spirit of foresight and strategic intent that the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has appointed Mr. Abimbola Tooki as Special Adviser on Media and Communication Strategy, a move widely regarded as both timely and tactical in an era where perception often shapes reality.
The appointment is more than a change of guard; it is a deliberate investment in narrative clarity, message discipline, and institutional coherence. In a political environment where misinformation spreads faster than wildfire in harmattan, the APC Chairman has chosen a man whose professional compass has consistently pointed toward truth, structure, and impact. As the English idiom goes, “the right man for the right job makes the work light.”
Mr. Tooki brings to the role a rich blend of journalism, strategy, leadership, and faith-driven values. A celebrated journalist, columnist, and media strategist, he has carved a reputation as one who understands not just how news is reported, but how stories are shaped, interpreted, and internalised by the public. His mastery of governance reporting, crisis communication, and information management places him in a class of professionals who do not merely react to events but anticipate them.
Like the sons of Issachar, “who had understanding of the times, to know what Israel ought to do” (1 Chronicles 12:32), Tooki’s strength lies in his ability to read the moment and align communication with purpose. His career reflects a consistent pattern of innovation and results-oriented leadership, using both conventional and digital platforms to bring institutions closer to the people; bridging the gap between power and the populace.
As a long-serving ICT Editor, Mr. Tooki played a pioneering role in developing influential ICT and business sections in leading newspapers, demystifying technology and economic policy for everyday Nigerians. He helped establish specialised ICT publications at a time when the sector was still emerging, proving once again that “the one who lights the path does not stumble in the dark.” His analytical depth and solution-driven mindset earned him respect in fast-paced newsroom environments where excellence is the only currency.
His professional journey, which includes a meteoric rise at Financial Standard and culminates in his current role as Editor of BusinessWorld Newspaper, is a testament to diligence and intellectual rigour. As Editor, he oversees not just editorial content but production, administration, and corporate management; an all-round leadership experience that mirrors the multifaceted demands of political communication at the national level.
Beyond print, Mr. Tooki is a familiar and trusted voice on broadcast media, particularly on platforms such as Channels Television, where he has, over the years, provided calm, incisive analysis of national headlines, public policy, and governance issues. In moments of national tension, his voice has often been one of balance and reason; proof that “soft answers can turn away wrath” (Proverbs 15:1).
Academically grounded, he holds an MBA from Obafemi Awolowo University, a Postgraduate Diploma in Journalism from the Nigerian Institute of Journalism, and a Bachelor’s degree in Language Arts from the University of Ilorin. This blend of management, communication, and language equips him with both the strategy and the syntax required for effective message delivery.
Perhaps most compelling is the moral dimension he brings to public service. Mr. Tooki is also a Pastor in the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), a calling that reinforces his commitment to integrity, service, and stewardship. In a time when leadership credibility is under intense scrutiny, his life echoes the biblical counsel: “Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful” (1 Corinthians 4:2).
In his new role, Mr. Tooki is expected to strengthen the APC’s communication architecture, manage reputation and messaging, and enhance engagement with stakeholders, the media, and the Nigerian public. Like a skilled watchman on the city wall (Ezekiel 33:7), he is positioned to sound the trumpet clearly and ensuring that the party’s voice is not only heard but understood.
The APC’s decision underscores a simple truth: “When the foundation is strong, the building stands firm.” By entrusting its media and communication strategy to a professional of Mr. Tooki’s calibre, the party signals its readiness to speak with clarity, confidence, and conscience.
As congratulations pour in, one thing is clear: this is not just an appointment; it is an alignment of experience, vision, and values. And as Scripture reminds us, “Seest thou a man diligent in his business? he shall stand before kings” (Proverbs 22:29). Abimbola Tooki has indeed stood before the demands of his calling; now, he steps forward to help shape the voice of a ruling party and, by extension, the story of a nation.
