By Becky Usman
Abuja – The forthcoming ministerial list from President Bola Tinubu is expected to feature at least five former governors and a number of technocrats, according to strong indications. The list, which is being referred to as the “cabinet of unity,” will include nominees from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and various technocratic backgrounds.
Tinubu’s move to reach across party lines has sparked contests and intrigues within political circles over the selection of suitable representatives from key states. However, it appears there will be sufficient slots available for the highly sought-after individuals. Sources suggest that the cabinet will be as large as that of former President Muhammadu Buhari, but with significant realignments in portfolios.
The President has less than 20 days remaining out of the constitutional allowance of 60 days to submit the list of ministers to the Senate for screening.
Insiders reveal that a 42-member cabinet is expected, with each state constitutionally mandated to have a representative. Similarly, each of the six geopolitical zones will have members in the unity government, following the pattern set by the previous administration.
The new cabinet is said to comprise 42 ministers and 20 special advisers. Notable differences from the previous administration include the possible elimination of Ministers of State, while special advisers will contribute to discussions during the weekly Federal Executive Council (FEC) meetings.
Furthermore, some large ministries are expected to be divided into two or three smaller ones, creating more portfolios for cabinet members. Ministries such as Works and Housing, Agriculture and Rural Development, Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development, as well as Youths and Sports are among those likely to be affected.
In addition to the ministerial positions, a list of 20 individuals has been proposed to serve as Senior Special Assistants (SSAs), Special Assistants (SAs), and Personal Assistants (PAs). The names on the list include Dr. Adekunle Tinubu (Personal Physician), Tunde Rahman (SSAP Media), Damilotun Aderemi (SSAP Private Secretary), Ibrahim Masari (SSAP Political Matters), Toyin Subair (SSAP Domestic), and Abdulaziz Abdulaziz (SSAP Print Media), among others.
While the ministerial list is eagerly anticipated, the inclusion of former governors and technocrats reflects Tinubu’s efforts to form a diverse and capable team to drive his administration’s agenda.