President Bola Tinubu is poised to scrap the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation as part of a major cabinet overhaul, sources close to the Presidency have revealed. This move comes amidst mounting pressure from within and outside his party, the All Progressives Congress, to axe underperforming ministers ¹.
The reshuffle, initially anticipated in early September, is expected to go beyond mere portfolio swaps. Instead, some ministries will be split, merged, or scrapped altogether to enhance effectiveness and output. The Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, already plagued by allegations of corruption and mismanagement, tops the list for elimination. Its current structure is deemed ineffective, and Tinubu believes existing agencies can absorb its functions.
Background of the Ministry
Established in August 2019 by former President Muhammadu Buhari, the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs aimed to streamline humanitarian interventions, disaster response, and social welfare programs. Nigeria’s internal conflicts, natural disasters, and rising internally displaced persons necessitated this move. However, the ministry has faced numerous controversies, particularly under its first minister, Sadiya Farouq, and successor, Dr. Betta Edu, who was suspended for allegedly diverting ₦585m in ministry funds.
Timing and Implications
Tinubu plans to finalize the reshuffle before departing for the 79th United Nations General Assembly. Frantic lobbying has begun, with some cabinet members seeking influential backing to secure their positions. However, the President remains resolute in his decision, prioritizing the country’s interests.
The impending changes have sparked concerns, with the Association of Senior Civil Servants of Nigeria warning that merging Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) could trigger industrial unrest.
