President Bola Tinubu is prepared to dismiss any ministers who fail to meet the targets set for them, according to the Presidency. Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser on Information and Strategy to the President, stated in an exclusive interview with Sunday PUNCH that although the President has not yet made a decision regarding the ministers’ performances, he has clearly communicated his expectations tied to his administration’s eight-point agenda. Ministers who do not meet these expectations will be removed from their positions.
Onanuga rated the administration’s performance at 70 percent as it approaches its first anniversary. He highlighted the dire economic situation Tinubu inherited, where 97 percent of the nation’s revenue was used for debt servicing, with additional borrowing required for recurrent expenses, including salaries. He credited the administration with averting economic collapse through decisive measures such as the removal of fuel subsidies and the unification of the exchange rate.
Tinubu’s Call to Ministers
During the inauguration of his 48 ministers, advisers, and other aides, President Tinubu urged them to prioritize the nation’s welfare over personal interests. At a retreat held at the State House in Abuja, he emphasized their collective responsibility to lift Nigeria out of poverty and change the national narrative.
“We have gathered here to shape the future, no threat about it,” Tinubu stated. “The responsibilities we bear are not just titles; they are the hopes and aspirations of millions of Nigerians.”
The President highlighted the need for unity and effective teamwork among government officials to ensure national recovery. He reminded them that their roles are not for making excuses but for making substantial progress.
“You must put aside personal ambitions and focus on the progress of our nation,” he said. “It is through this that we can be truly proud. I am proud to stand before you. I contested the election and won with your support. They took me to court, and I won.”
Commitment to National Progress
Tinubu sought the commitment of his ministers and government officials to work cohesively towards the government’s goals. He encouraged open communication and collaboration to resolve any issues and ensure the country’s economic prosperity.
“We have a responsibility to our country to make sure we completely change the narrative about Nigeria,” he said. “If we have problems, let’s talk to one another. Let’s have gentle conversations about our country.”
The President reiterated the importance of addressing key issues such as healthcare and poverty reduction, stressing that while poverty is not shameful, it is unacceptable.
“Are we going to dig our people out of it?” he asked, urging his team to rise to the challenge of transforming Nigeria’s future.
