In a significant move to reshape his cabinet, President Bola Tinubu has nominated seven new ministers, including notable figures such as Bianca Odumegwu Ojukwu and Nentawe Yilwatda. This comes as part of an ongoing cabinet reshuffle aimed at addressing the current challenges facing Nigeria, including inflation, economic strain, and security concerns.
Bianca Odumegwu Ojukwu has been nominated for the position of Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, a role expected to leverage her international experience and diplomatic skills. Nentawe Yilwatda, on the other hand, has been nominated as the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, replacing the suspended Betta Edu.
Other nominees include Maigari Dingyadi for Minister of Labour and Employment, Jumoke Oduwole for Minister of Industry, and Idi Maiha for the newly created Ministry of Livestock Development. Yusuf Ata has been nominated as Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development, while Suwaiba Ahmad has been selected for the position of Minister of State for Education.
In addition to these new appointments, the President has reassigned 10 ministers to different portfolios, demonstrating his administration’s commitment to addressing the pressing issues facing the country. Among the ministries affected are Women’s Affairs, Education, Housing, and Youth Development, where several ministers have been relieved of their duties.
The reshuffle comes after mounting pressure from Nigerians, who have expressed dissatisfaction with the performance of some ministers amidst the nation's rising inflation and insecurity. In September, the presidency hinted at a possible reshuffle, and now, this bold step marks a key moment in Tinubu’s administration.
As the nominees await Senate confirmation, Tinubu has urged the incoming ministers to see their roles as a call to serve, with the objective of steering Nigeria towards lasting growth and progress.
This strategic shake up reflects the President's resolve to ensure a competent team is in place to tackle the nation's growing economic and social challenges. Nigerians will be watching closely as these changes take effect, hoping for a positive shift in governance.