October 1 Fears Grip Ministers, as Tinubu set to Appoint Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso and Senator Shehu Sani.
Ahead of Nigeria’s 64th Independence Day celebration, there is growing apprehension within the Federal Executive Council (FEC) over the possibility of a cabinet reshuffle by President Bola Tinubu. Sources within the presidency have indicated that some ministers could lose their positions due to poor performance or actions that have been deemed unsatisfactory, including irregularities in recent board appointments.
According to a source at the Presidential Villa, some ministers may face removal due to these infractions, with speculations suggesting that President Tinubu may announce the reshuffle around Independence Day on October 1.
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The reshuffle could result in the dismissal of as many as eight ministers, according to close insiders, although the exact number remains uncertain.
In addition to these potential dismissals, there are strong indications that President Tinubu may bring opposition politicians into his cabinet, with Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) being considered for a ministerial appointment. Kwankwaso’s political influence, particularly his Kwankwasiyya Movement in Kano State, is seen as a key asset. However, concerns have been raised by those within the ruling party who fear that Kwankwaso could leverage the appointment to mount a presidential bid in 2027.
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Another opposition figure who may join the cabinet is Senator Shehu Sani, a former member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) who left the party in 2018 to join the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP). Sani’s potential inclusion in the government reflects Tinubu’s desire to bring in “fresh hands” and extend his reach across party lines.
While Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, confirmed that Tinubu has been contemplating a cabinet reshuffle, he did not specify when it might take place or which ministers would be affected. Nonetheless, reports have speculated that as many as eleven ministers could be at risk, with various political actors both inside and outside the government actively lobbying for positions in the restructured cabinet.
With Nigeria’s Independence Day approaching, the reshuffle could serve as a significant step in President Tinubu’s efforts to realign his administration and bring in new faces to tackle the country’s pressing challenges. However, as the president plays his cards close to his chest, uncertainty looms for those currently holding office.
