President Bola Tinubu reshuffled his cabinet, nominating seven new ministers, including Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu for Minister of State Foreign Affairs and Nentawe Yilwatda for Minister of Humanitarian Affairs. The shake-up comes amid growing calls for improved governance and policies in response to economic challenges and public dissatisfaction.
In a significant cabinet shakeup, President Bola Tinubu has nominated seven new ministers, replacing five outgoing members and reassigning ten others. This reshuffle underscores the president’s efforts to streamline his administration in response to Nigeria's mounting economic and social challenges.
Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu
Among the high-profile nominees is Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, who has been tapped for the role of Minister of State for Foreign Affairs. Bianca, a respected diplomat, lawyer, and former beauty queen, previously served as Nigeria’s Ambassador to Spain and as a key figure in Nigeria’s international relations. With her extensive diplomatic background, she is expected to play a pivotal role in reshaping Nigeria's foreign policies.
Nentawe Yilwatda
Nentawe Yilwatda, a seasoned engineer and public figure, has been nominated to head the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation. Yilwatda’s appointment follows his experience with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and various community projects, marking him as a strategic choice to address poverty and social welfare issues across Nigeria.
Maigari Dingyadi
Formerly the Minister of Police Affairs, Maigari Dingyadi has been reassigned to lead the Ministry of Labour and Employment. A veteran politician, Dingyadi brings years of legislative and executive experience, having served in numerous roles, including representing Sokoto State in various capacities. His expertise will be crucial in addressing Nigeria's labor market issues and employment policies.
Jumoke Oduwole
Nominated as Minister of Industry, Jumoke Oduwole is an academic known for her work in governance and economic reforms. Oduwole played a key role in improving Nigeria's business environment as a special adviser to the president on Ease of Doing Business, and she will now focus on industrial growth and policy implementation under her new portfolio.
Idi Maiha
Idi Maiha, a prominent figure in the agricultural sector, has been appointed to lead the newly established Ministry of Livestock Development. With years of experience managing agricultural enterprises, Maiha’s new role will involve promoting livestock farming and addressing food security concerns as part of Tinubu’s broader efforts to enhance agricultural productivity.
Yusuf Ata
Yusuf Ata, a former speaker of the Kano State House of Assembly, has been nominated as the Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development. Known for his strong background in politics and governance, Ata is expected to drive policy reforms that tackle housing challenges and urban development projects.
Suwaiba Ahmad
Suwaiba Ahmad, an educationist and gender advocate, has been nominated for the position of Minister of State for Education. Her extensive background in academia, particularly her leadership roles at Bayero University, Kano, positions her to champion education reform and promote gender equality in Nigeria’s education system.
These nominations come at a time when Nigerians are calling for significant changes in government, particularly in response to inflation and ongoing security concerns. Tinubu’s decision to overhaul his cabinet reflects his intention to address these issues head-on, signaling a new phase of governance aimed at driving national growth.
