Politics

Tinubu Appoints FCT Native As Minister, The First Time Since 1999

Published by Tope Fakinlede on August 2nd, 2023.

Tinubu Appoints FCT Native As Minister, The First Time Since 1999

FCGs reports that Jisalo is one of 19 Ministers that made the cut as announced by the Senate President today.

Zaphaniah Bitrus Jisalo (born April 3rd, 1970) is a politician, PR expert, administrator and former Member of the House of Representatives.

FCGs gathered that he began his educational journey at the Garki Primary School, Abuja (1977-1982); then at the Government Secondary School, Karu (1983-1988); Institute of Mass Communication and Technology, Jos, 1992; Nigeria Institute of Journalism, Lagos, 1992 and later a Bachelor’s degree in Education from the University of Jos (1999-2001).

To enhance his knowledge and skills, Zaphaniah Jisalo obtained an Advanced Diploma in Applied Psychology and a Diploma in Criminal Justice and Administration from the University of Jos. He also pursued studies in Public Relations at the Institute of Mass Communication and Technology. Additionally, he expanded his expertise by studying Government Policies, Planning, and Implementation at Thames Valley University in London, UK.

Jisalo’s professional journey started as a Public Affairs Officer with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from 1990 to 2002. He later ventured into politics and was elected as the Chairman of Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC) in 2004. His effective leadership led to his re-election in 2007 and until in 2010.

In 2011, he took a significant step in his political career and was elected into the Federal House of Representatives under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), representing Abuja Municipal/Bwari Constituency. He was also re-elected in 2015 leading to his service in the 7th and 8th National Assembly.

Throughout his tenure, he actively contributed to various House Committees, including Sports, Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Defense, Customs & Excise, Appropriations, and National Security & Security.

Jisalo was appointed FCT Co-ordinator of the Tinubu Solidarity Group (TSG) in 2022. An indigene of Garki in Abuja Municipal Area Council LGA,
he is married with children.

Hon. Jisalo becomes the first native of the FCT since 1999, to be appointed Minister.