3 hours ago
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ABUJA – The House of Representatives has applauded President Bola Tinubu for his recent reshuffling of ministerial positions, describing the decision to relieve five ministers of their duties as “smart and patriotic.”
It could be recalled that on October 23, 2024, President Tinubu dismissed five ministers, appointed seven new ones, and reassigned ten others to different portfolios.
Those dismissed include Uju-Ken Ohanenye, former Minister of Women Affairs; Lola Ade-John, former Minister of Tourism; Tahir Mamman, former Minister of Education; Abdullahi Gwarzo, former Minister of State, Housing and Urban Development; and Jamila Ibrahim, former Minister of Youth Development.
The newly appointed ministers awaiting Senate confirmation are Nentawe Yilwatda, Muhammadu Dingyadi, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, Jumoke Oduwole, Idi Maiha, Yusuf Ata, and Suwaiba Ahmad.
In an interview with SATURDAY INDEPENDENT, the House’s Deputy Spokesman, Philip Agbese, praised President Tinubu’s commitment to performance, highlighting that the reshuffle aligns with his vision for a results-driven administration.
According to him, “The House is fully behind the President’s decision to discharge some ministers and reassign others. This move is both smart and patriotic. Nigerians should remember that the President made it clear that performance is non-negotiable by requiring ministers to sign a performance bond at the start of their tenure.”
He cited an example involving the former Minister of Women Affairs, who had recently drawn criticism for her conduct in a House committee hearing, saying her actions demonstrated a lack of respect for the legislative body. “This is unacceptable,” Agbese said.
He stated, “The President has walked his talk, and Nigerians have been calling for such a reshuffle, considering the current state of affairs. This reshuffle shows that he is a listening leader, aware of the people’s concerns.”
The Lawmaker also urged Nigerians to be patient, assuring that the House of Representatives is aligned with the Federal Government’s “Renewed Hope Agenda” to address national challenges.
Agbese explained, “There are indeed numerous challenges, but President Tinubu and the 10th House of Representatives, led by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, are not resting. Today’s struggles are the result of years of negligence by previous administrations, but we must move beyond excuses.”
He stated that the National Assembly remains dedicated to creating laws that promote good governance, empower Nigerians, and strengthen democracy.
“In no distant time, Nigerians will begin to see positive results. Mr. President has demonstrated that the parliament is essential to sustaining our democracy, and together, we are working to take the country to its rightful place,” Agbese said.
The spokesman also encouraged the ministers who retained their positions to intensify their efforts, noting that only through their dedication can Nigeria become a better place for all.
