Concerns are growing among some ministers as indications of a cabinet reshuffle loom.
On Monday, reports suggested that several ministers are feeling anxious following comments from Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, about potential changes in the cabinet.
He hinted that those ministers who are not actively contributing to the Renewed Hope Agenda could face dismissal.
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Criticism has surfaced regarding the current cabinet, with many observers alleging that several ministers have secured their positions primarily through political patronage rather than merit.
Before President Bola Tinubu announced his cabinet, there were high hopes that it would be populated largely by technocrats.
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Sources within the Presidency disclosed that prior to his two-week vacation in the United Kingdom, President Tinubu had requested a performance review of the ministers, which was compiled by Hadiza Bala Usman, the Special Adviser on Policy Coordination and head of the Central Delivery Coordination Unit.
One insider mentioned that Mrs. Usman has been thorough in her evaluation of ministerial performance, stating, “Some of the ministers are jittery and have attempted to lobby her, but she is not easily swayed. She has always been strict and diligent, dating back to her tenure as Managing Director of the Nigeria Ports Authority.”
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The source emphasized that the President intends to refresh his cabinet with new talent to effectively implement the Renewed Hope Agenda.
Additionally, President Tinubu reportedly held a lengthy meeting with Mrs. Usman in his Aso Rock office on Monday.
Also present were Zaccheus Adedeji, Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) and Special Adviser on Revenue, as well as Engr. Dave Umahi, the Minister of Works. Earlier in the day, the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, and the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, had met with the President.
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A presidential source indicated that an announcement regarding the cabinet reshuffle is expected by the end of the week.
“There is a Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting scheduled for Wednesday, which may serve as a farewell gathering for some ministers unless the President opts to delay the announcement,” the source added.
