Indications have emerged that several ministers in President Bola Tinubu’s administration are on edge as a cabinet reshuffle looms.
With whispers of a shake-up in the air, sources suggest that those found lacking in performance or not actively contributing to the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda could soon be shown the door.
This comes after Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, hinted at the reshuffle, warning that underperforming ministers may soon face replacement. This statement has sent shockwaves through the administration, leading some ministers to panic.
The reshuffle talks have been brewing for a while, especially since critics have raised concerns that many ministers were appointed based on political patronage rather than merit.
There was high anticipation that technocrats would form the majority of the cabinet, but so far, this expectation has not fully materialized.
In the midst of the uncertainty, one name stands out: Mrs. Hadiza Bala Usman, the Special Adviser to the President on Policy Coordination and head of the Central Delivery Coordination Unit. Sources close to the Presidency confirmed that she has compiled a performance report on each minister, which is now under review.
“Some ministers are jittery and have even tried to lobby her, but she is not one to be easily manipulated,” said an insider familiar with the process. “From her time as the Managing Director of the Nigeria Ports Authority, she has been known for her thoroughness and strictness.”
The source further revealed that Mrs. Usman has fulfilled her responsibility with diligence, presenting a detailed assessment of the ministers’ effectiveness.
“The President is serious about reshaping his cabinet and bringing in fresh hands to help realize the full potential of his Renewed Hope Agenda,” the source added.
A key meeting was held yesterday in Aso Rock, with President Tinubu conferring with Mrs. Usman. Also spotted in the meeting were Zaccheus Adedeji, Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), who also serves as the President’s Special Adviser on Revenue, and Engr. Dave Umahi, the Minister of Works. National Security Adviser Mallam Nuhu Ribadu and Chief of Defence Staff General Christopher Musa were also present during the session.
The President is expected to announce the reshuffle by the end of the week, and speculation is rife that a Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting scheduled for Wednesday may serve as a valedictory session for some ministers, barring any last-minute changes.
With the reshuffle hanging in the balance, many ministers are now hoping their performances will be enough to secure their positions in the next phase of the administration.