The much awaited ministerial list was finally unveiled by the Senate President Bukola Saraki, on Tuesday 6, amidst high expectations from Nigerians. Buhari led administration has been operating without cabinets until last week when the list reached the Senate for screening and confirmation.
In spite of repeated assurances by Mr President that his ministerial list will be presented before the end of September, barrage of criticisms have trailed the move from some Nigerians and political parties notably the PDP, an opposition party, which perceived it as constitutional breaches that needs to be condemned by all right thinking Nigerians.
The three months delay in cabinet appointment means different things to different people. For instance, many people see it as good omen as it affords PMB the opportunity to study the Joda’s transition committee reports and makes wise decision forthwith. Besides, the three months period enabled the president to know the extent of rot in most of the federal government ministries.
Also, appointing cabinets immediately after the inauguration was just like continuation of last administration that bequeathed the legacies of corruption in all aspects of human development.
Moreover, the quantum of revenue saved in the last three months is pointer that the President will not accept any lame excuses from the incoming ministers. To the pessimists, however, Mr President’s delay suggests the level of unpreparedness and lack of policies direction of his administration. All the hue and cries have been laid to rest last week with the ministerial list before the Senate.
Taking a cue from the list, one can say the incoming cabinets consist of people of timber and caliber. Many of them have carved a niche either in public or private life and would assist the present administration to actualise its mandate.
Interestingly, the likes of Audu Ogbe, an agriculturist, indicate better days for Nigeria. Also worth mentioning is Solomon Dalong, who in the past, spoke truth to power no matter whose ox is gored.
To the surprise of many Nigerians, three former governors made the list. These are: Rotimi Amaechi, Raji Fashola and Fayemi. Each of these governors performed credibly in office. The giant strides recorded in the three states which the appointees served spoke volumes about their integrity, acceptability and hard work. Today the nominees will be screened in line with the constitutional requirements.
The nominees should bear in mind that if finally screened and confirmed, they are going to work with the government that is geared to touch the lives of the ordinary people.
The culture of impunity that was the order of the day in the last regime would not be tolerated. Mr President is a non nonsense man who is imbued with discipline and integrity. Let me felicitate with the new ministers for an appointment well -deserved and pray for God guidance as you get set for another important national assignment.
Ibrahim Mustapha Pambegua,
Federal Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, Abuja