President Bola Tinubu’s cabinet officially began its term 84 days after he assumed office. The President urged the 45 ministers to prioritize serving the nation with “integrity, dignity, and delivery” in their roles, underlining the need to implement overdue reforms and restore citizens’ confidence in government. During the swearing-in ceremony at Abuja’s State House Conference Centre, President Tinubu emphasized the daunting challenges the country faces and called on the ministers to meet the expectations of Nigerians. He stressed that they are ministers of the entire country, not specific regions or states.
The event was graced by Vice-President Kashim Shettima, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abass. The ministers were sworn in groups of five, and their portfolios were assigned by President Tinubu on August 16. The new ministers promptly reported to their respective ministries to initiate their roles.
Additionally, President Tinubu instructed the Minister of Labour and Employment, Simon Lalong, and the Minister of State, Nkeiru Onyejeocha, to engage with Organized Labour regarding the fuel subsidy removal. He emphasized the need to find resolutions that would help workers overcome the challenges stemming from this decision. The President’s vision centered on renewing hope and achieving collective progress, with a focus on rebuilding public trust in government.
Among the ministers, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, the newly appointed Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, conveyed his determination to live up to the lofty expectations tied to his role. He stressed the significance of teamwork among ministry staff, expeditious handling of files, and adherence to protocol. Similarly, the Minister of State Petroleum Resources (Oil), Heineken Lokpobiri, committed to elevating Nigeria’s oil production as a paramount goal for his ministry.
Overall, the swearing-in event marked the official initiation of President Tinubu’s cabinet, spotlighting the ministers’ dedication to addressing pressing national concerns, enacting reforms, and working toward a brighter future for Nigeria.