Femi Gbajabiamila (born 1962) is a seasoned Nigerian lawyer and politician currently serving as the Chief of Staff to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Before assuming this role in June 2023, he served as the 14th Speaker of the House of Representatives (2019–2023). As of January 9, 2026, he remains one of the most powerful figures in the Nigerian presidency, acting as the primary bridge between the executive and the legislature.
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Key Biographical Information
| Detail | Information |
| Full Name | Olufemi Hakeem Gbajabiamila (CFR) |
| Born | June 25, 1962, Lagos State, Nigeria |
| Current Office | Chief of Staff to the President (since June 14, 2023) |
| Former Office | Speaker of the House of Representatives (2019–2023) |
| Political Party | All Progressives Congress (APC) |
| Key Legacy | Architect of the Student Loan Act (NELFUND). |
Current Status: 2026 Resilience and Rumors
Entering the new year, Gbajabiamila’s position at the heart of the “Renewed Hope” administration has been a focal point of both policy and political speculation.
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Debunked Removal Rumors (Dec 2025): On Christmas Day 2025, the Presidency issued a formal statement to dismiss viral social media reports claiming that Gbajabiamila had been replaced by Hakeem Muri-Okunola. Presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga labeled the claims “fabrications” by mischief-makers, reaffirming that the Chief of Staff remains firmly in his role.
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The “Lagos 2027” Factor: As of January 2026, Gbajabiamila is frequently cited by political analysts as a top contender for the Lagos State Governorship in 2027. While he has not officially declared his intention, his deep roots in Surulere and his performance as Speaker make him a “formidable and preferred” candidate within APC circles.
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Legislative Legacy: In early January 2026, the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND)—which was Gbajabiamila’s brainchild during his time as Speaker—is being celebrated for reaching a milestone of 1 million student beneficiaries. Critics and supporters alike have recently debated the need for more institutional recognition of his role in crafting the Act.
Philanthropy and “Surulere Homecomings”
Despite his high-pressure role in Abuja, Gbajabiamila remains intensely connected to his Lagos constituency.
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Medical Bills Clearance (Jan 2026): On January 2, 2026, in his capacity as an elder statesman, Gbajabiamila paid ₦53 million to offset the medical bills of patients at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) and the Femi Gbajabiamila General Hospital in Surulere.
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Baby of the Year: Continuing his annual tradition, he visited the Gbaja Maternal and Child Centre on New Year’s Day to present gifts to the first babies of 2026, emphasizing the need for privileged citizens to support the vulnerable during the current economic transition.
Professional Profile
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The Strategic Gatekeeper: As Chief of Staff, he manages the President’s schedule, coordinates cabinet memos, and oversees the “Presidential Delivery Unit.” He is noted for his Spartan discipline and for maintaining a “unified front” within the Aso Rock inner circle.
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Constitutional Expert: With his background in law from the University of Lagos and Atlanta’s John Marshall Law School, he is often the “final pair of eyes” on sensitive executive orders and legislative bills before they reach the President’s desk for signature.