Tinubu increases powers of Ministers of State
President Bola Tinubu has approved a significant policy change that gives ministers of state full control over the agencies and departments they oversee.
In the past, permanent secretaries would send files related to these agencies to senior ministers for final approval, limiting the decision-making power of ministers of state and making their roles more symbolic.
A source from the head of service’s office shared with The Cable that President Tinubu was unhappy with the old system. He felt it led to the underuse of ministers of state’s skills and abilities.
The new policy allows ministers of state to make all necessary administrative approvals and take charge of decisions and actions within their responsibilities. This change is meant to fully tap into the potential of all cabinet members and improve government efficiency.
Tinubu’s cabinet has 48 ministers, 16 of whom hold junior positions. The ministries affected by this change include agriculture, defence, education, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), foreign affairs, health, petroleum, humanitarian affairs, and women’s affairs, among others. Other ministries impacted include works, regional development, labour, finance, trade, and housing.
