The Red Chamber confirmed several new ministers, including Dr. Jumoke Oduwole as Minister of Industry, Trade, and Development; Dr. Nentawe Yilwatda as Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction; and Muhammadu Dingyadi as Minister of Labour and Employment, among others. This confirmation came after a five-hour screening led by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, following President Bola Tinubu’s dismissal of previous ministers on October 21, 2024.
During their screening, the newly confirmed ministers shared plans to improve their ministries. Bianca addressed funding challenges faced by Nigerian embassies, highlighting the need for better funding to maintain dignified diplomatic facilities. She emphasized that maintaining respectable embassies is vital for Nigeria’s global standing.
Oduwole discussed her vision to revitalize Nigeria’s economy through targeted investments and job creation, emphasizing the alignment of monetary, fiscal, trade, and industrial policies for sustainable growth. She noted a significant decline in foreign direct investment (FDI) over the past five years and outlined her commitment to retaining and attracting investment, boosting exports, and creating jobs. Oduwole cited a recent $3 billion investment from Jindal Steel Africa as a sign of the administration’s positive economic reforms.
Oduwole emphasized efforts to boost youth employment and IT service exports through companies like Outsource Global, highlighting that young Nigerians can earn foreign exchange while working from home. She expressed her commitment to transforming Nigeria into a global hub for service exports and improving high-value jobs. Oduwole’s past collaboration with the Eighth National Assembly on the Collateral Bill helped secure loans for small businesses, aiming to align Nigeria with global value chains in the $3.4 trillion African market.
In another session, Maiha from Adamawa State proposed enhancing the 417 grazing areas in Nigeria to develop modern livestock businesses, requiring support from the National Assembly and local communities. However, the Senate encouraged him to consider broader solutions to the ongoing conflicts between farmers and herders, suggesting that he adopt best practices from countries like China and the Netherlands.
Senator Abaribe lauded the President for including portfolios with nominees for screening, highlighting the importance of this practice for effective scrutiny. Laughter erupted in the Senate during the screening of Kano ministerial nominee Ata when Senator Hanga jokingly mentioned feeling threatened by Ata’s appointment. Despite their political ties, Hanga supported the nomination, while Senator Sumaila urged a quick confirmation for Ata, citing his grassroots connections. Deputy Senate President Jibrin praised the President for selecting Ata, emphasizing his strong political journey from humble beginnings.
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