Today, Senator Godswill Akpabio, the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, is set to unveil the much-awaited list of ministerial nominees. Notable figures such as the former Rivers State governor, Nyesom Wike, and Kaduna governor, Nasir El-Rufai, have made it to the list, bringing excitement and anticipation among Nigerians.
According to reliable sources, President Bola Tinubu forwarded the ministerial list to the Senate in the early hours of Thursday, ensuring compliance with the constitutional deadline. The constitution, as amended by the Ninth Senate, requires the President to present the nominees within sixty days after taking the oath of office, and this deadline is fast approaching.
The constitutional provision also emphasizes the importance of gender representation in the cabinet, stating that not less than ten percent of appointed ministers should be women. Furthermore, at least one minister should be selected from each of the 36 states in the federation.
The list is expected to bring a diverse set of candidates, including economist Olawale Edun, former Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria Adebayo Adelabu, and Betta Edu, the women leader of the All Progressives Congress, who have all made the cut.
Additionally, former Minister of Health under Goodluck Jonathan, Ali Pate, has also been listed among the nominees. Other notable figures include Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), former Cross River governor Ben Ayade, Osun State governor Gboyega Oyetola, and the President’s Special Adviser on Media, Strategy, and Special Duties, Dele Alake.
However, it is important to note that the President forwarded the names without specifying the portfolios they will hold, keeping everyone in suspense until the formal announcement.
The delay in revealing the cabinet has led to various speculations and unofficial lists circulating on social media. The Senate President’s media aide, Jackson Udom, has urged the public not to speculate and wait for the official unveiling of the nominees.
Nigerians have been eager for the President’s cabinet to be announced, especially since Tinubu promised to establish a “government of national competence” and assured that his administration would prioritize competent individuals in key positions. With the unveiling of the ministerial nominees, the nation is hopeful for a credible and capable team to lead the country forward.
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