As President Tinubu plans a cabinet reshuffle, political lobbying intensifies with contenders vying for influential positions.
As President Bola Tinubu approaches a significant cabinet reshuffle, numerous ministers and their political associates are intensifying their efforts to secure their roles within the administration. Reports indicate that vigorous lobbying activities are currently in progress, aimed at maintaining favorable relations with the President.
The Presidency has confirmed that a cabinet overhaul is imminent, corroborating earlier reports from OBASANJONEWS on September 1 regarding the anticipated changes. According to presidential aides, some ministers, apprehensive about potential replacements, are employing various strategies to influence the President’s decisions.
A presidential aide remarked on the typical nature of such scenarios, noting that ministers often seek the assistance of their political mentors to sway the President’s choices; however, the ultimate decision will rest with the President, who is committed to prioritizing the nation’s best interests.
Those anxious about their positions are reportedly seeking the backing of key figures within Tinubu’s inner circle, including Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila. These ministers are leveraging their connections with influential political leaders to bolster their chances of remaining in the Federal Executive Council.
Nonetheless, insiders within the administration have voiced concerns regarding the increasing pressure on the President, with one official highlighting that even the Chief of Staff is apprehensive about the ongoing lobbying and political maneuvering.
As the political climate becomes more charged, it remains uncertain how President Tinubu will manage these power dynamics and make decisions that align with Nigeria’s needs.
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The forthcoming days will be crucial in determining which ministers will retain their positions and the future trajectory of Tinubu’s government.
The information provided indicates that the President has been facing significant pressure from influential political figures and ministers in light of rumors regarding an impending cabinet reshuffle.
This situation has prompted the Chief of Staff to recommend that the President take a brief respite in the United Kingdom following his participation in the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation Summit held two weeks prior in China.
For a period, there was uncertainty among Nigerians regarding the President’s location, which led to speculation about his health after images of his meeting with King Charles emerged online.
In reality, the President was advised to retreat temporarily to alleviate the mounting pressure and lobbying efforts surrounding his administration.
While it is common for politicians to advocate for their associates, public dissatisfaction with the performance of several ministers has created a scenario where the President may have no alternative but to make necessary changes.
It has been suggested that if individuals are not meeting performance expectations, they must be replaced, irrespective of their political connections. Reports indicate that an announcement regarding the cabinet shake-up could be made by October 1, although this date has not been independently verified.
In a recent briefing with State House correspondents, the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, along with the Senior Special Assistant on Digital/New Media, O’Tega Ogra, clarified that any forthcoming changes to the cabinet would be informed by performance evaluations that the President has received over the preceding months.
Onanuga indicated that Tinubu has expressed his intention to reorganize his cabinet, thereby corroborating The OBASANJONEWS report regarding an imminent cabinet reshuffle. He clarified, however, that no specific timeline has been established for this anticipated change, although the President has articulated a clear desire to proceed with it.
Onanuga remarked, “I cannot provide a timeline. The President has indicated his intention to undertake a cabinet reshuffle, and it will happen.
I am uncertain if this will occur before October 1, but it is certain that it will take place. That is all I can confirm. While no specific timeline has been communicated, the President has made it known that he plans to implement this change.”
Regarding the current administration’s performance, Onanuga stated, “The President has instructed all ministers during the recent Federal Executive Council meeting to actively promote the achievements of his administration.
Some ministers have been reticent in engaging with the media, whether on television or radio, and he encourages them to overcome these hesitations.
It is essential for them to communicate the significant efforts and accomplishments of the government, as there is a prevailing perception that the administration is not doing enough, despite the considerable work being undertaken. It is their responsibility to advocate for their ministries and highlight the progress they have made.”
