Post a comment 
The ECOWAS Envoy and Chairman of the Presidential Initiative on Climate Resilience, Food Security and Energy (PI-CREF), Dr Kandeh Yumkella, has dismissed growing speculation about his presidential ambitions, stating that his immediate priority remains delivering on his current mandate.
Speaking during a recent media engagement, Dr Yumkella emphasised that his focus is firmly on service and performance, rather than political aspirations.
“We will cross that bridge when the time comes,” he said, adding that experience is something earned over time. “Experience cannot be bought. I did not spend five years in Parliament to go and play -I learned a lot about legislation and politics.”
He noted that his career, both nationally and internationally, has been guided by continuous learning and preparation. According to him, every role he has undertaken has contributed to his growth, equipping him for higher responsibilities.
“It is a service,” Yumkella said. “I have always told my staff that whatever we are doing, they must learn from it. Globally, I applied the same principle throughout my career, and it prepared me for leadership roles, including serving as a Director and CEO of major agencies.”
Addressing questions about his presidential interest, Yumkella reiterated that discussions about future political ambitions would come at the appropriate time. For now, he said, his attention is on regional responsibilities, particularly ongoing ECOWAS engagements.
“Everything I am doing now is about ECOWAS,” he stated, noting that President Julius Maada Bio has not signalled any political transition discussions. “The President has not rung the bell yet. My duty is to do my work.”
He described President Bio as “the best coach,” adding that the administration has declared this year as one of delivery.
“When the coach says this is the year of delivery, then we must deliver,” Yumkella said.
Drawing a parallel with political developments in Nigeria, Yumkella referenced President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, noting that ministers with political ambitions are expected to resign before contesting.
“In Nigeria, Tinubu said any minister who wants to contest must resign. The Foreign Minister stepped down to pursue a governorship,” he noted.
Using a football analogy, Yumkella likened the political landscape to team selection and competition.
“When the coach is preparing a team to play in a bigger league, like facing Manchester United, that is when you will see who can play,” he said. “For now, I am still in the midfield.”
He concluded by reiterating his loyalty to leadership and process: “Let us wait for the coach to decide.”
