Tinubu Poised for Cabinet Reshuffle Amid Growing Pressure on Ministers
By Wisdom Tide
01/09/2024
Strong indications have surfaced that President Bola Tinubu is contemplating a significant reshuffle of his cabinet, aiming to address concerns of underperformance among some ministers. This move comes in response to mounting pressure from within the All Progressives Congress (APC) and other key stakeholders who have raised alarms about the apparent inactivity and inefficiency of certain members of the administration.
According to sources within the Presidency, the anticipated reshuffle could lead to the removal of some ministers from office, while others may be reassigned to different portfolios to better utilize their strengths. This development follows closely on the heels of the recent resignations and replacements of the Directors-General of the National Intelligence Agency (NIA) and the Department of State Services (DSS).
Last year, President Tinubu established the Result and Delivery Unit, spearheaded by Mrs. Hadiza Bala-Usman, the Special Adviser on Policy Coordination. The primary mandate of this unit was to assess the performance of ministers and other high-ranking government officials, with a clear directive that those failing to meet expectations would be subject to dismissal.
Although no official list of ministers who may be affected by the impending reshuffle has been released, it is apparent that President Tinubu is determined to ensure his cabinet consists of capable and proactive leaders. The overarching goal is to enhance the administration’s effectiveness in implementing the President's ambitious policy agenda.
A source familiar with the matter commented, "What I can tell you is that some ministers will be relieved of their duties. A few others will see their positions changed, and new faces will be brought into the cabinet. The President is now placing a greater emphasis on capacity—on individuals who can truly add value to his government."
This sentiment is echoed by another source close to the President, who revealed that there is a growing consensus among Tinubu’s inner circle that a stronger cabinet is essential for the successful execution of his policies. The source elaborated, "There is a widespread belief among his aides, confidants, and even the public that the current cabinet could be significantly improved. Many of Tinubu's close associates agree that a more robust team is necessary to ensure the successful implementation of his policy initiatives. It's one thing to articulate policies, but it's another to have ministers who can effectively deliver the desired outcomes. Often, the success of an administration is heavily dependent on the competence of its cabinet members and the heads of its agencies."
The source further pointed to recent international criticism as a contributing factor to the urgency of the reshuffle. "If you look at the editorial by the Financial Times earlier this week, it was quite critical. They acknowledged the bold decisions and the positive direction of the reforms but emphasized that the President has a weak cabinet that may hinder the successful execution of these reforms. This is why the administration seems to be struggling. The President needs to bring in people who are more energetic, knowledgeable, and dedicated—individuals who are willing to roll up their sleeves and work tirelessly to turn things around for Nigeria."
The source concluded by stressing the critical nature of the next year in Tinubu’s presidency. "If the past year has been less than stellar, the President cannot afford to waste another. The upcoming year is crucial; it is this period that will define the legacy of this government."
As the pressure mounts, all eyes are on President Tinubu to see how he will navigate this delicate situation. The anticipated cabinet reshuffle represents an opportunity for the administration to recalibrate and strengthen its team, potentially paving the way for more effective governance and the successful realization of its policy objectives. Whether the reshuffle will indeed lead to the desired improvements remains to be seen, but it is clear that the President is under considerable pressure to take decisive action
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