Cabinet Shake-Up: Tinubu Calls for Fresh Scorecards from 46 Ministers as Lobbying Intensifies
Performance-Based Reshuffle Imminent
President Bola Tinubu is preparing for a significant cabinet reshuffle, asking his 46 ministers to submit fresh performance scorecards. This follows reports of underperformance among several key figures in his administration, prompting an impending overhaul aimed at enhancing government efficiency.
The Presidency confirmed on Wednesday that Tinubu’s decision to evaluate ministerial performance will determine the composition of the Federal Executive Council moving forward. This decision validates earlier reports suggesting that a shake-up is imminent, with Tinubu keen to strengthen his government’s capacity to meet national goals.
Ministers, Political Bigwigs Intensify Lobbying Efforts
In light of the impending reshuffle, intense lobbying has begun among ministers and their political allies. Reports suggest that many ministers are seeking the intervention of influential figures, including political godfathers and the President’s Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, to secure their positions. Despite these efforts, sources close to the Presidency have indicated that Tinubu remains resolute in his commitment to performance-driven changes, unaffected by external pressure.
A presidential aide remarked, "It is typical for ministers to reach out to their political allies, but the President is focused on what is best for the country and will make decisions based on performance."
Chief of Staff Expresses Concern Over Lobbying Pressure
Sources within the Presidency have disclosed that the Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, has raised concerns about the mounting pressure on Tinubu from those attempting to influence the reshuffle. In response, Tinubu was advised to take a brief respite in the United Kingdom following the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation Summit, in order to allow the pressure to subside.
"There was speculation about the President’s health when he visited London, but the truth is that he was taking a few days off to reduce the intensity of the lobbying," a source confirmed.
Performance Reviews at the Heart of Reshuffle
The reshuffle will be informed by detailed performance reviews conducted over the past months. The Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, and the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Digital/New Media, O’Tega Ogra, confirmed that the shake-up would be based on empirical evidence of each minister’s contributions.
Onanuga stated, "The President has expressed his desire to reshuffle the cabinet, and this will be based on the performance reports he has received." He added that while there is no fixed timeline, the decision is imminent.
Ogra echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that the reshuffle will not be arbitrary but grounded in assessments carried out by the Central Delivery Coordination Unit, led by Hadiza Bala-Usman. This unit has been tasked with tracking ministerial performance against the administration’s objectives.
Nigerians Demand Action Against Underperforming Ministers
Public dissatisfaction with the performance of certain ministers has been growing, driven by frustrations over economic challenges, corruption, and insecurity. Many Nigerians believe the government has not delivered on its promises, particularly in areas like infrastructure development, job creation, and national security. This discontent recently culminated in the #EndBadGovernance protests, which rocked the nation in August.
Despite these concerns, a few ministers have been praised for their accomplishments. Notable among them is Amb. Yusuf Tuggar, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, who has strengthened Nigeria’s diplomatic relations globally, and Mohammed Idris, the Minister of Information, recognized for efforts to counter fake news and promote national unity.
Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs May Be Scrapped
As part of the reshuffle, there are strong indications that the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation could be scrapped or merged with another portfolio. This follows the suspension of its former minister, Dr. Betta Edu. Other ministries may also see a restructuring, with some portfolios split or combined to enhance efficiency.
Quarterly Reviews and Ministerial Accountability
Tinubu’s administration has emphasized the importance of accountability and performance. Following a three-day retreat for cabinet members in November 2023, the President made it clear that ministers would be evaluated quarterly, with their positions depending on their ability to meet key deliverables.
"We will review objectives, and if there is no performance, ministers will be asked to leave," the President asserted during the retreat.
Conclusion
As the President prepares for his first major cabinet reshuffle, the focus remains on ensuring that ministers who stay on will contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s development. With intense lobbying underway, it is clear that the reshuffle will be a turning point in Tinubu’s administration, with ministers held accountable for their performance over the past year.
While many await the announcement of the shake-up, Nigerians continue to demand a government that delivers on its promises of economic recovery, security, and progress. The coming weeks will reveal how Tinubu's reshuffle will reshape the Federal Executive Council and whether it will address the public’s growing concerns.
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