The 2024 cabinet reshuffle in Nigeria has generated a lot of interest among citizens, following President Tinubu’s decision to significantly reorganize his cabinet. This key development was announced by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, in an interview with Fatshimetrie on October 27, 2024.
In the past week, Tinubu has taken the decision to terminate the appointment of five ministers and propose the appointment of seven others, subject to confirmation by the Senate. This decision has had a major impact on the structure of government by abolishing two ministries, namely the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs and the Ministry of Sports Development. In addition, two ministries have been merged, leaving the Ministry of Tourism now under the Ministry of Culture and Creative Economy.
A key decision that has garnered attention is the creation of the Ministry of Regional Development, which is tasked with overseeing all regional development commissions such as the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) and other regional commissions. The new structure is aimed at enhancing coordination and efficiency in regional development across the country.
However, despite these significant announcements, many Nigerians have questioned the President’s continued silence on Edu’s case. Indeed, Edu, a former Commissioner for Cross Rivers State, was suspended in January following allegations of a ₦585 million financial scandal within her ministry. The President had also suspended the Managing Director of the National Social Investment Programme Authority (NSIPA) over allegations of embezzlement.
As a result, a thorough investigation was assigned to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to look into all aspects of the financial transactions involving Edu’s ministry and its agencies. However, the President has remained silent on the outcome of the EFCC investigation, leaving the suspended minister’s final fate in doubt.
This cabinet reshuffle raises serious questions about governance and transparency in the Nigerian government. Citizens are eagerly awaiting clear answers and transparent accountability from the authorities, in order to strengthen public confidence in government institutions.