From John Jatto, Lafia
In the ever-evolving landscape of Nigeria’s political system, it has become an entrenched norm for party leaders, associates and peer groups to substantially influence ministerial appointments and other key posts in federal parastatals.
While this system may serve political interests, it often compromises the effective governance of the country. In many cases, the President may be left with little knowledge of the capabilities of those nominated, making it difficult to manage the economy and lead the nation efficiently.
The aftermath of President Bola Tinubu’s decision to roll out reforms, including the removal of fuel subsidies, has provoked varied reactions. While some political pundits view these reforms as necessary steps towards long-term prosperity, others argue they have brought undue hardship on the people.
Despite the disbursement of funds to governors and ministers to cushion the effects of subsidy removal, millions of Nigerians remain economically strained, intensifying calls for urgent measures to address the nation’s pressing issues.
One of the most resounding demands from stakeholders and political analysts alike is for a reshuffle of Tinubu’s cabinet. Many believe many of the current ministers lack the expertise and vision required to implement Tinubu’s ambitious policies, aimed at restoring investors’ confidence and stabilising Nigeria’s economy.
Speaking on Arise TV recently, Mustapha Mona Audu, a chieftain of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), called for a cabinet reshuffle to inject fresh leadership with a clear understanding of the country’s challenges: “It’s not about having just people occupying positions.
“You need people with vision, people with understanding, people who know what to do and how to go about doing it.” He added that over half of the current cabinet members are underperforming.
He also reflected on the impact of Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda: “Delivering speeches is one thing; fulfilling promises is another entirely. Nigerians are not feeling the Renewed Hope agenda—two protests in three months show us we’re not performing as promised.”
The chorus for reshuffling does not end with Audu. Kingsley Moghalu, former Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria and Chairman, Africa Private Sector Summit, echoed similar sentiments.
In a recent interview, he underscored the urgent need for technocrats in key positions to help navigate Nigeria through its economic crisis: “To restore investors’ confidence, President Tinubu needs to reshuffle his cabinet. The initial appointments were too slow and when they came, it was a largely political cabinet, not the technocratic leadership investors were hoping for.”
Moghalu went further, recommending the establishment of a full-time Economic Advisory Council to provide guidance on handling the country’s financial instability: “The real solution to our crisis lies in fixing the incompetency and habits that got us here. If we address these, we won’t continue lurching from crisis to crisis.”