Indications have emerged suggesting that governors within the All Progressives Congress (APC) are likely to nominate three individuals from their respective states as part of the ongoing tussle for President Bola Tinubu’s ministerial list. Sources within Tinubu’s camp revealed that the list of nominees may be submitted to the Senate for confirmation in July, heightening expectations for the swift formation of Tinubu’s cabinet to expedite the governance process.
While former President Muhammadu Buhari took six months to assemble his cabinet, Nigerians anticipate that Tinubu will unveil his cabinet members promptly, considering his early actions regarding economic decisions and appointments of special aides. Notably, the President recently announced the appointment of eight Special Advisers, having previously obtained Senate approval for 12 Special Advisers. However, these appointments represent only a fraction of the cabinet, with ministers holding more significant roles and authority over government Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs).
Under the Constitution, each state is entitled to one minister, allowing for a total of 36 ministers, including ministers and ministers of state. The All Progressives Congress (APC) governors are expected to play a crucial role in determining the nominees from their respective states. In non-APC states, failed governorship candidates from the 2023 polls and party leaders may have a say in the selection of ministerial candidates.
Reports suggest that APC governors have been requested to submit three names from each state, leaving the President with the prerogative to choose one nominee for ministerial appointment. Intriguingly, some of the potential nominees were recently appointed by Tinubu as Special Advisers. Notably, Mr. Dele Alake was appointed as Special Adviser for Special Duties, Communications, and Strategy, while Mr. Wale Edun was appointed as Special Adviser for Monetary Policies. There had been earlier speculation that Alake might head to the Information Ministry, while Edun might be assigned to the Finance Ministry.
The selection of ministerial nominees is a critical aspect of Tinubu’s upcoming cabinet formation, with expectations high for a competent and diverse team to drive Nigeria’s governance and developmental agenda.
