Obaba Museum

Its a cool Wednesday morning in the bustling city of Lagos, Nigeria. Amidst the turmoil and reorganisation characterised by military rule, a journalist currently the Editor and Managing Director of New Nigerian Newspaper sets off for a meeting with the Head of state where he’s expected to take up a new role in the newly constituted government. His analytical mind and passion for communication had already set him on a path of distinction. Unbeknownst to him, fate had grander plans in store.

The faint murmurs of speculation indicates that something significant is about to unfold. To the surprise of the whole nation, he is appointed as the Governor of Nigeria’s Central Bank. The appointment of a historian as the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) seemed unconventional, almost enigmatic.

There are rumours as to what really transpired.  Kole Omotosho, argues that Ciroma, was actually supposed to be appointed the managing director of Daily Times, while Aliko Mohammed, an accountant, was to be made CBN governor. At the swearing-in however, Muhammed mistakenly gave Ciroma the papers assigning him the governorship of CBN and Mohammed the papers as MD of Daily Times. After the ceremony, the attention of the head of state is drawn to the error, but he says “a general does not change his mind” and that the two should go and learn on the job. Ciroma would later recount the circumstances surrounding his appointment In an Interview with Daily Trust two years before his death.

With the mantle of power now upon his shoulders, Adamu Ciroma embarked on the daunting task of steering the economy. His every move is being scrutinized, his every decision weighed carefully. However the young governor handles his assignment with total commitment and diligence.

And so, dear comrades, as we glimpse into the past, we see that the tale of Adamu Ciroma, the historian who became the CBN Governor, was no mere coincidence. It was a story of foresight and destiny, of a man who, unbeknownst to himself, held the key to Nigeria’s economic future.

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