In a recent statement, Ali Ndume, the lawmaker representing Borno South senatorial district, has called for President Bola Tinubu to take decisive action against underperforming ministers within his cabinet. Ndume emphasized the need for further restructuring, following Tinubu’s recent cabinet changes.
Ndume expressed his support for the President’s restructuring efforts, particularly praising the establishment of the Ministry of Regional Development. He stated, “We saw President Tinubu’s cabinet reshuffle last week, which was a masterstroke,” highlighting the importance of this new ministry in overseeing regional commissions. However, he insisted that “more needs to be done as some ministers are still ‘missing in action.’”
The senator articulated that the creation of the Ministry of Regional Development signifies Tinubu’s commitment to streamlining governance and reducing costs. “The President’s decision to streamline ministries also exemplifies his commitment to reducing the cost of governance,” Ndume added, indicating a broader vision for efficiency in government operations.
In addition to cabinet changes, Ndume urged Tinubu to intensify his de-dollarisation policy. He believes that positioning Nigeria to join BRICS—an economic bloc consisting of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa—would greatly benefit local businesses. “This move would reduce reliance on the dollar and ease pressure on the naira,” he noted, emphasizing the advantages for Nigerian businesses engaged in trade, especially with China.
Moreover, Ndume suggested the convening of a national economic conference led by key economic figures, including the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning and notable Nigerian economists. This conference would aim to develop local solutions to bolster Nigeria’s economy, reflecting Ndume’s proactive approach to addressing economic challenges.
Contrasting Ndume’s perspective, Chief Charles Udeogaranya, a former presidential aspirant of the All Progressives Congress, criticized the recent cabinet reshuffle. He described it as a series of “wrong changes that wouldn’t yield the desired results.” Udeogaranya expressed concern that the economic team lacks the necessary brainstorming and innovation.
“I therefore charge Tinubu to overhaul, reshuffle, and inject new hands with good leadership skills into his economic team if he truly desires a better economy for Nigeria and Nigerians,” Udeogaranya concluded. His remarks underline the pressing need for effective leadership and strategic changes to address the country’s economic issues.
