President Bola Tinubu has submitted the names of seven new ministerial nominees to the National Assembly following the dismissal of six ministers from his cabinet.
Alongside the new appointments, President Tinubu has reassigned 10 ministers to new portfolios in an effort to improve governance and ensure the efficient delivery of services to Nigerians.
Among the notable appointments, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu has been nominated to serve as the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs. Odumegwu-Ojukwu, a prominent diplomat, lawyer, and businesswoman, brings a wealth of experience to the role.
She previously served as Nigeria’s Ambassador to Spain and the country’s representative to the United Nations World Tourism Organization. She is also the widow of the late Biafran leader, Chukwuemeka Odumegwu-Ojukwu. Her nomination is seen as part of Tinubu’s strategic move to strengthen Nigeria’s diplomatic relations.
Nentawe Yilwatda, another nominee, is set to become the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction. Yilwatda, an engineer and former Resident Electoral Commissioner, is known for his work in community development and engineering.
His new role will place him at the helm of efforts to tackle poverty and manage humanitarian challenges in the country. His appointment signals the end of Betta Edu’s tenure in the ministry.
Maigari Dingyadi, a seasoned politician from Sokoto State, has been nominated as the new Minister of Labour and Employment. Dingyadi, who previously served as Minister of Police Affairs, is expected to play a critical role in addressing the country’s labor and employment issues.
Jumoke Oduwole, an academic and expert in international law, has been selected to take over the Ministry of Industry. Oduwole is a former Special Adviser to the President on Ease of Doing Business and has been an advocate for trade and investment reforms.
Idi Maiha, a business leader in the agricultural sector, has been appointed to lead the newly created Ministry of Livestock Development. Maiha is currently the Chairman and CEO of Zaidi Farms Limited and has contributed significantly to Nigeria’s agribusiness.
Yusuf Ata, an experienced educator and former Speaker of the Kano State House of Assembly, has been nominated as the Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development. Ata’s background in education and governance is anticipated to bring a fresh perspective to the ministry, especially in addressing housing challenges across the country.
Finally, Suwaiba Ahmad, a lecturer and gender advocate from Bayero University, Kano, has been appointed as the Minister of State for Education. Ahmad, who has held several academic leadership positions, including directing the Centre for Gender Studies, is expected to champion educational reforms, particularly in areas related to gender equality and access to education.
These appointments reflect President Tinubu’s commitment to reshaping his administration by bringing in experienced professionals and public servants from diverse fields.
