President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has advised the seven newly appointed ministers in his cabinet to be ready for public scrutiny and criticism as they assume their roles.
Speaking at the swearing-in ceremony held on Monday at the State House in Abuja, the President emphasized the importance of resilience and dedication in their service to the nation.
Among those sworn in were Idi Maiha as Minister of Livestock Development, Yusuf Ata as Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development, Dr. Suwaiba Ahmad as Minister of State for Education, and Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu as Minister of State for Foreign Affairs. Other appointments included Dr. Jumoke Oduwole as Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment (Trade Investment), Dr. Nentawe Yilwatda as Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, and Muhammadu Dingyadi as Minister of Labour and Employment.
President Tinubu acknowledged that while criticism is an inevitable part of public service, the ministers’ lasting reward will be the legacy they create by steering Nigeria towards prosperity.
He stressed the weight of their responsibilities, noting that they serve over 200 million Nigerians amid economic challenges and security concerns.
The President commended the ministers’ commitment, describing it as a noble sacrifice that requires setting aside personal freedoms.
He assured them of his administration’s dedication to addressing the nation’s economic and security issues, vowing to put an end to profiteering and smuggling of the nation’s resources.
“We have stopped the scavengers, and we are going to put an end to profiteers and smugglers of our resources,” Tinubu said.
“We are not shying away from our responsibilities; we are facing them head-on, and with you as part of this team, I am proud and honoured to lead us towards success and prosperity.”
Reflecting on the broader mission of governance, Tinubu expressed appreciation for all council members who have worked tirelessly over the past 17 months to reposition Nigeria.
He emphasized that public service is a call to duty, praising the ministers for their willingness to join his administration in its mission to transform the country.
“You have been called to join a committed team of Nigerians dedicated to Nigeria’s recovery and progress.
Service is the hallmark of governance, and I thank the ministers here today for their tireless efforts to put Nigeria on the path of recovery,” Tinubu concluded.