President Bola Tinubu has appointed Dr. Wasiu Olanrewaju-Smart as Special Adviser on National Assembly Matters (House of Representatives), replacing Ibrahim Olanrewaju who resigned to pursue a political ambition in his home state.
The 40-year-old appointee brings an impressive blend of legislative experience and Ivy League credentials to the role, according to a statement from Presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga.
A Profile in Policy and Politics
Olanrewaju-Smart holds a doctorate in Educational Management from Lead City University and a Master’s in Public Administration from Harvard University, where he was an Edward Mason Fellow in Public Policy at the Kennedy School. His academic portfolio also includes a professional diploma in Public Relations from the London School of Public Relations, a LEAPS Fellowship at MIT, and a Policy Fellowship at Quantum Alliance AI in the US, focusing on AI and civic technology.
From Speaker’s Office to Presidency
His legislative career spans over a decade, starting as Research and Media Assistant to the Minority/Majority Leader during the 7th–8th Assemblies, before rising through the ranks to Special Adviser, Deputy Chief of Staff, and ultimately Chief of Staff to the Speaker of the House in the 9th and 10th Assemblies.
He joined the Presidency in October 2023 as Senior Special Assistant on Intergovernmental Affairs—a position he held until this latest appointment.
Legislative Legacy
His policy portfolio includes contributions to landmark legislation, including the Interest-Free Student Loan Act, among others.
Presidential Confidence
President Tinubu expressed confidence that Olanrewaju-Smart would deploy his experience, intellect, and commitment to strengthening coordination between the Presidency, MDAs, and the House of Representatives.
“This appointment is with immediate effect,” Onanuga confirmed.
