The Nigerian Senate has begun screening seven new ministerial nominees, following President Bola Tinubu’s recent cabinet reshuffle.
This development comes after Tinubu’s dismissal of five ministers, sparking significant interest in the new appointees who may drive changes in critical areas such as humanitarian affairs, education, and trade.
Among the nominees is Dr. Nentawe Yilwatda, who is expected to serve as Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, and Muhammadu Dingyadi as Minister of Labour and Employment. Notably, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu has been nominated as Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, and Dr. Jumoke Oduwole for Minister of Industry, Trade, and Development. Other appointees include Idi Muktar Maiha as Minister of Livestock Development, Rt. Hon. Yusuf Ata as Minister of State for Housing, and Dr. Suwaiba Said Ahmad as Minister of State for Education.
The Senate expedited the screening process by suspending its rules to allow the Special Adviser to the President on Senate Matters, Basheer Lado, to introduce the nominees. This motion, led by Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, was passed in Wednesday’s plenary, allowing for immediate attention to Tinubu’s selections.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio read Tinubu’s nomination letter in Thursday’s session, underscoring the administration’s intent to revitalise key ministries and address critical socio-economic challenges. With the new ministerial appointments, Nigerians are looking for impactful governance, particularly in areas needing reform and development.
