President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s long-awaited list of ministerial
nominees has been unveiled, featuring
prominent figures such as former Kaduna
State Governor Nasiru El-Rufai, Rivers State counterpart Nyesom Wike, and
esteemed medical scholar Ali Pate.
In adherence to the constitutional provision that mandates the
list to be submitted to the National Assembly within 60 days after the
presidential inauguration, President Tinubu dispatched the list to Senate
President Godswill Akpabio this morning, just before the approaching weekend
deadline.
The list presents a diverse blend of both politicians and
technocrats, showcasing individuals like legal luminary Lateef Fagbemi (SAN),
economist Olawale Edun, banker Adebayo Adelabu, former Osun State Governor
Adegboyega Oyetola, All Progressives Congress (APC) Women Leader Betta Edu,
Senator Ben Ayade, and Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Media, Strategy, and Special
Duties, Dele Alake.
Speaking to The Nation, an inside source couldn’t confirm the
total number of nominees but assured that the list reflects the President’s and
ruling party’s commitment to the national character and outlook.
As the nomination process moves forward, the screening of
candidates is expected to take place next week. It is speculated that Ali Pate,
renowned Harvard professor of medicine and former Minister of State (Health)
during the Jonathan Administration, is likely to be appointed as the Minister
of Health.
Nasiru El-Rufai, former Minister of the Federal Capital
Territory (FCT) and head of the APC Panel on Restructuring, may be assigned to
the Power Ministry.
Legal expert Lateef Fagbemi, hailing from Ijagbo, Kwara State,
is set to become the Minister of Justice and Attorney-General of the
Federation.
Olawale Edun, who previously served as Lagos Finance
Commissioner, is expected to take on the role of Special Adviser to the
President on Monetary Policy.
Adegboyega Oyetola, a seasoned financial expert, will be
recognized for his tenure as Governor of Osun State between 2018 and 2022.
Dr. Betta Edu, the APC Women Leader, is a former Health
Commissioner in Cross Rivers State, and she is anticipated to play a crucial
role in the cabinet.
Adebayo Adelabu, nominated from Oyo State, retired as Central
Bank Deputy Governor and had previously contested for governor in the last
general election under the platform of the Accord Party.
