Former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Professor Isa-Ali Pantami, has said public office holders should present verifiable records of their performance, insisting that his clean record after leaving office speaks for itself.
Pantami made the assertion on Monday in Gombe during the launch of a compendium documenting 241 legacy projects and over 700 employment opportunities executed during his tenure.
The former minister who is aspiring to be Gombe State Governor challenged political office seekers to emulate his approach by showcasing concrete achievements rather than making promises.
“I am not going to the people with empty promises, but with a scorecard. If you want to present yourself for anything, come with your scorecard show that you have been tested and trusted,” he said.
The former minister, who served as Director-General of the National Information Technology Development Agency from 2016 to 2019 and later as minister from 2019 to 2023, said his record in office remains open for public scrutiny.
He emphasised that despite years in government, he has not been invited or indicted by any anti-corruption agency.
“Through the protection of the Almighty, we served for years in government and we have never been invited by any institution for any corrupt practice,” Pantami said.
He continued saying “It is not easy to serve for that long with a clean record without being indicted in any report. We are grateful to God for that.”
Pantami argued that leadership accountability should be anchored on documented performance, noting that his compendium reflects tangible contributions to national development, particularly in technology, education, and job creation.
Pantami further stated that his projects were evenly distributed across the country, ensuring no state was marginalised.
“Justice must be done to every part of the federation. That is exactly what we ensured,” he added.
Reiterating the role of technology in governance, Pantami said many of the projects executed under his leadership were designed to address insecurity, unemployment, and educational gaps.
He also highlighted the establishment of digital centres equipped with internet access, modern software, and cybersecurity systems to empower youths and support security agencies.
Pantami maintained that Nigeria’s challenges can be addressed through the right mix of technology, policy, and strategic implementation, urging leaders to focus on measurable impact.
“This is not the time for promises. It is time for presenting records for people to assess,” he said.
Testimonies from beneficiaries also highlighted the impact of his initiatives.
One of them, Abubakar Mohammed, said the intervention enabled him to secure an appointment with the Federal University of Kashere.
“I am a lecturer in Educational Foundations. At the moment, I have completed my PhD in Kwara State,” he said.
Another beneficiary, Abubakar Maina, now a staff member of the National Identity Management Commission, commended Pantami for facilitating his employment.
“The testimonies underscore the impact of the projects and employment initiatives carried out during his tenure, particularly in empowering youths and strengthening public institutions,” he said.
