On October 30, 2024, the Nigerian Senate confirmed the appointments of seven new ministers as part of President Bola Tinubu’s cabinet reshuffle. This comes after the dismissal of several ministers on October 21, marking a significant shift in the country’s leadership.
The newly confirmed ministers include:
- Dr. Jumoke Oduwole: Minister of Industry, Trade, and Development
- Dr. Nentawe Yilwatda: Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction
- Muhammadu Dingyadi: Minister of Labour and Employment
- Idi Muktar Maiha: Minister of Livestock Development
- Yusuf Ata: Minister of State for Housing
- Dr. Suwaiba Said Ahmad: Minister of State for Education
Senate President Godswill Akpabio led the confirmation process, which lasted about five hours and included a voice vote. Each nominee presented their vision for their respective ministries, highlighting their goals for improving Nigeria’s development.
This cabinet reshuffle also introduced new leadership in various ministries. For instance, Iman Sulaiman-Ibrahim has taken over as Minister of Women Affairs, succeeding Uju Kennedy Ohanenye. The Ministry of Tourism has also seen a change, with former Minister Lola Ade-John handing over her duties to the new Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy.
The Senate made adjustments to its procedural rules to allow Basheer Lado, Special Adviser to the President on Senate Matters, to accompany the nominees during the plenary session.
Following their confirmation, the new ministers will be sworn in by President Tinubu, enabling them to participate in the upcoming Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting on November 4. This meeting is expected to provide fresh insights after the recent cabinet changes.
