Profiles of ministers on Renewed Hope mission
President Bola Tinubu on Monday inaugurated into his cabinet 45 ministers who were cleared by the Senate. WesternPost in this report presents profiles of ministers and their ministries.
KWARA STATE:
Lateef Olasunkanmi Fagbemi, SAN
A Life Bencher of the Body of Benchers, Lateef Fagbemi is a prominent Nigerian lawyer, jurist, and Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) who has made significant contributions to the administration of law and justice in Nigeria.
Born on 16 July, 1959, he attended University of Jos, where he obtained his Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree in 1984 before being called to Bar in 1985. He later obtained a Master of Laws (LLM) degree from the University of Ife, in 1987. After completing his education, Lateef Fagbemi began his legal career as a pupil counsel under Chief Afe Babalola, SAN and later practiced as Solicitor and Advocate under the name of Lateef Fagbemi & Co which later converted to a partnership under the same name. In 1996, he was conferred with the rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), and has also received various other awards and honours.
The learned silk will be the Attorney General and Minister of Justice.
ABIA STATE:
Hon. Barrister Nkeiruka Chidubem Onyejocha, OON
Hon. Onyejocha was born on November 23, 1969. She represented Isuikwuato/Umunneochi Federal Constituency of Abia State in the 6th, 7th, 8th and 9th Assemblies. She was the Deputy Chief Whip of the 9th Assembly. The former Transitional Chairman and Abia State Commissioner for Resource Management and Manpower Development holds a PhD in Political Science from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka. She’s a lawyer with two Masters degrees in Transport Management from Ladoke Akintola University, Oyo State and International Affairs and Diplomacy from Imo State University. This recipient of the national honour of the Officer of the Order of Niger, OON will serve as the Minister of State for Labour and Employment.
ADAMAWA STATE
Prof. Tahir Mamman, SAN, OON
Prof Mamman was born on 7th July, 1954 in Michika, Adamawa State. He obtained Bachelor’s Degree in Law from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, and followed up with Masters and Doctorate Degrees from the University of Warwick, United Kingdom. In 2005, Prof. Mamman was appointed Deputy Director – General, Kano Campus of the Nigeria Law School, and later became its Director General. He served as a faculty member of the University of Maiduguri in different capacities between 1985 and 2001.
The Senior Advocate of Nigeria is also a recipient of the national honour of Officer of the Order of the Niger, OON. The Professor was the Vice – Chancellor of Baze University, Abuja and the Member representing the North – East on the board of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC). The distinguished Professor will serve as the Minister of Education.
AKWA IBOM STATE
Rt. Hon. Ekperikpe Ekpo
Hon. Ekpo, hails from Ikot Udom Village in Ika Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State. He attended the University of Calabar for his first-degree in Biology (Ecology) in 1989 and subsequently obtained his Master’s degree in Environmental Pollution and toxicology. In July 2003, he was appointed Caretaker Chairman of Ika Local Government Council for a period of seven months. He was later elected as Chairman in May, 2004.
In 2007, he contested and won the House of Representatives seat for Abak/Etim Ekpo/lka Federal Constituency in the National Assembly. While in the Green Chambers, he was appointed Deputy Chairman, House committee on industry. He also served as member, House Committees on Customs Service, National Security and Intelligence, Power and Niger Delta Affairs among other assignments. Hon. Ekperipe Ekpo will serve as Minister of State (Gas) Federal Ministry of Petroleum Resources
ANAMBRA STATE:
Barr. Uju-Ken Ohanenye
An investor, Philanthropist and humanitarian who was born on December 23, 1978. She hails from Awka South Local Government Area of Anambra State. Her academic journey took her to the Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, where she earned a Bachelor of Law degree. The Barrister is known for establishing the Kenuj Shower of Love Foundation, which is renowned for her humanitarian activities. She is chairperson of Kenuj Investment Limited, a company with diverse commercial interests including real estate. Barrister Ohanenye will serve as the Minister of Women Affairs.
BAUCHI STATE
Dr. Muhammad Ali Pate
Dr. Pate, a distinguished figure in the global public health arena, was born on September 6, 1968, in Misau LGA of Bauchi State. He studied medicine and surgery at Ahmadu Bello University Zaria. He worked at the institution’s Teaching Hospital from 1990 to 1991 and then moved to the British Medical Research Council Laboratories in Gambia. He furthered his medical training in the United States, completing a residency in Internal Medicine in 1998 and a fellowship in infectious diseases at the University of Rochester, New York. He holds an American board certification in both internal medicine and infectious diseases. Additionally, Dr. Pate possesses an MBA (health sector concentration) from Duke University, USA, and a Master’s degree in health system management from the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, UK. He has made significant contributions to healthcare and disease eradication efforts around the world. He will serve as the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare.
Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar also from BAUCHI STATE
Amb. Tuggar was born on March 12, 1967. He was a member of the House of Representatives from 2007 to 2011, representing Gamawa constituency. He studied at the United States International University, Missouri; University of Bath and the University of Cambridge, both in the United Kingdom, focusing on international relations and security. He was appointed Nigerian Ambassador to Germany in August 2017. He will serve as the Minister of Foreign Affairs.
BAYELSA STATE
Senator Heineken Lokpobiri
Senator Lokpobiri was born on 3rd March 1967. He bagged a Law Degree in 1994 from the Rivers State University of Science and Technology, Port Harcourt. He is an expert in Environmental Rights and Law and also holds a Doctoral degree from Leeds Beckett University, UK (2015). He served as Minister of State for Agriculture and Rural Development 2015-2019. Prior to this, Senator Lokpobiri represented Bayelsa West district in the Sith and Seventh Senate and served in various Senate committees, including Sports, Public Accounts, Police Affairs, Niger Delta and Millennium Development Goals. He will serve as be Minister of State (Oil) in the Federal Ministry of Petroleum Resources.
BENUE STATE:
Professor Joseph Terlumun Utsev
Born in Buruku Local Government Area of Benue State on December 2, 1980, Professor Utsev holds a Bachelors Degree in Civil Engineering as well as a Masters and Ph.D in Water Resources and Environmental Engineering from the University of Nsukka in 2007 and 2011 respectively.
He has been a lecturer in the Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi since 2006. He was Commissioner of Water Resources and Environment in Benue State between 2017 and 2018, and Rector, Federal Polytechnic Wanune, Benue State. He will serve as the Minister of Water resources and Sanitation.
BORNO STATE
Senator Abubakar Kyari, CON
Born on 15th January 1963, Senator Kyari is the immediate past Acting National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress. He was the Senator representing Borno North Senatorial District at the 8th and 9th National Assembly from 2015 until his resignation in April 2022. He attended the University of Tennessee Martin in the USA where he obtained a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration (Economics) in 1986. Thereafter in 1989, he attended Webster University St.Louis Missouri USA for his Masters in Business Administration (Finance).
At various times, he was Commissioner for Urban and Rural Water Supply, Education, Home Affairs and Information as well as Works in Borno State.
The Commander of the Order of the Niger, CON, awardee will serve as Minister of Agriculture and Food Security.
CROSS RIVER STATE:
Dr. Betta C. Edu
Born October 27, 1986, the Medical Doctor served as the Cross River State Commissioner for Health and was the National Chairman of the Nigeria Health Commissioners Forum. Trained at the University of Calabar, and London School of Hygiene & Tropical medicine, she played a pivotal role in mobilizing women members of the APC as the National Women Leader of the party. The seasoned administrator will serve as Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation.
SENATOR JOHN OWAN ENOH ALSO FROM CROSS RIVER STATE
Born June 4, 1966, Senator Enoh represented Central District of Cross River State in the 8th Assembly. He holds a Master of Science Degree in Demography and Bachelor of Science Degree in Sociology from the University of Calabar, where he graduated as the best student in 1988. An accomplished educationist, politician, farmer and philanthropist, he lectured for 7 years at the University of Calabar, Cross River State between 1991 and 1997. He will serve as Minister of Sports.
DELTA STATE
Festus Keyamo SAN, CON
Born January 21, 1970, he hails from Ughelli, Delta State. He obtained a Bachelor of Law degree from Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma in 1992 and was called to the Bar in 1993. He started work at Gani Fawehinmi Chambers as a Youth Corps member and remained there until he formed Festus Keyamo Chambers in 1995. He was the Director of Strategic Communications, APC Presidential Campaign Council 2019 and Spokesperson/Director Public Affairs of the Tinubu-Shettima 2023 APC Presidential Election Campaign Council. During the immediate past administration, he served as the Minister of State for Niger Delta Affairs, and Minister of State, Labour and Employment.
Festus Kayamo is a recipient of the national award of the Commander of the Order of Niger, CON. He will serve as the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development.
EBONYI STATE:
Senator David Umahi, CON
Senator Umahi, from Ohaozara Local Government area of Ebonyi State was born on July 25, 1963. He was the Governor of the State from 2015 to 2023 having previously been the deputy governor from 2011 to 2015. He is the Deputy Leader of the 10th Senate representing Ebonyi South Senatorial District. A Civil Engineer who worked with construction giants before setting up his own company, his tenure as governor of Ebonyi State was remarkable for landmark infrastructural and economic development of the State. Among others, he constructed ring roads connecting the major roads to the four neighbouring States and communities for which he has received numerous awards. He was Chairman of the Southeast Governors’ Forum from 2015 to 2023 and also Co-Chairman of the Southern Governors’ Forum from 2017 to 2023. He is a recipient of the prestigious national honour of Commander of the Order of the Niger, CON. He will serve as the Minister of Works.
EDO STATE
Hon. Abubakar Eshiokpekha Momoh
Born on 27th November 1959, Hon. Momoh was a two-time member of the House of Representatives representing Etsako Federal Constituency from 2003-2007 and 2011 to 2015. The University of Benin trained Chemical Engineer holds two Masters Degrees in Public Administration and Engineering. He has worked as a classroom teacher and trainee engineer at Gulf oil company (now Chevron) Escravos, Warri. He will serve as the Minister of Niger Delta Development.
EKITI STATE:
Mr. Oladele Henry Alake
Born October 6, 1956, ‘Dele Alake’ holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Political Science and Masters of Mass Communication, from the University of Lagos.
A seasoned media and political strategist of over 40 years, he is a Fellow and former Vice President of the Nigerian Guild of Editors. Mr Alake served as Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Lagos State from 2010 – 2023, responsible for propagating, projecting, publicizing and marketing all Lagos State government policies, programs, projects. He was Vice Chairman, TVC Communications.
Between 1885 to 1999, he worked at Concord Press Nigeria Limited where he was Editor and member of the editorial board at different times. He was also a Special Adviser to the late MKO Abiola.
Until his appointment as Minister, he was Special Adviser to the President on Special Duties, Communications and Strategy. He will serve as the Minister of Solid Minerals Development.
CHIEF UCHE GEOFFREY NNAJI FROM ENUGU STATE
Born June 16, 1963 in Nkanu West Local Government of Enugu State, Chief Nnaji holds a Bachelors in Biochemistry and Microbiology from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka.
A successful private sector player, he is the Chief Executive Officer and Founder of Seegnal Nigeria Limited with engagements in construction and marine services.
He is also Director of companies with interests in hydro power generation, Crude oil pollution control, medical equipment, rice processing as well as manufacturing.
Chief Nnaji is a member of Nigeria Association of Commerce, Industries, mines and agriculture (NACCIMA) Nigeria-Japan Chamber of Commerce and the Microbiology Association of Nigeria. He will be Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology.
GOMBE STATE
Senator Sa’idu Ahmed Alkali
Senator Alkali was born on 12th February, 1969 in Dukku, Borno State. He obtained a Bachelor of Science Degree in Economics from the University of Maiduguri, worked with the Dukku Local Government Council, and later joined the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
He is a three-term Senator representing Gombe North Senatorial District, serving between 2010 and 2023. The Distinguished Senator was also a Commissioner for Information in the State from 2008 to 2010. He will be Minister of Transportation.
IMO STATE:
Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite
Dr. Uzoka-Anite, from Oguta Local Government Area of Imo State, is an accomplished professional with expertise in Banking, Finance, Human Resource, IT, Treasury, and Public Service. She graduated with a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery from the University of Benin. In her role as Commissioner of Finance and Coordinating Economy in Imo State, she supervised multiple ministries. She was a member of the Presidential Advisory Council. She will be Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment.
JIGAWA STATE:
Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, CON, mni
Mohammed Abubakar, born on September 29, 1962, was Jigawa State governor from 2015 to 2023. He is a graduate of Accounting from the Ahmadu Bello University Zaria. He served as the Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Fertilizer and Gas as well as the Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Non-oil Nigerian Economy in the immediate past administration. The former Governor has an extensive experience in the private sector as Chairman/President of a number of Chambers of Commerce. He is the CEO of Talamiz group of industries.
Mohammed Abubakar is a recipient of the prestigious national award of the Commander of the Order of the Niger, CON and also an Alumnus of the National Institute of Policy and Strategic Studies, mni. He will be Minister of Defence..
Kano State
Abdullahi Muhammad Gwarzo
Born September 23, 1960 in Koyar Getso in Kano State, he holds a Bachelor’s degree in science from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria in 1988. He went into politics and was thrice elected Chairman of Gwarzo Local Government Council between 1991 and 2007. He was Deputy Governor of Kano State between 2007 and 2011 and was a pioneer member of the Board of Trustees of the APC.
Abdullahi Gwarzo is designated Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development.
DR MAHMOUD MARIYA ALSO FROM KANO STATE
Dr Mariya was born on January 15 1978. She studied Medicine and Surgery at Bayero University Kano and later furthered her education to become a consultant in family medicine at the Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital. She is a consultant in family medicine with over 20 years of experience in the field. Dr Mariya is also a member of the National Postgraduate Medical College and the West African College of Physicians. She was appointed Commissioner for Higher Education in Kano State in 2020. In that role, she oversaw the upgrade of state’s tertiary education system for which she received numerous awards. She is a strong advocate for women’s empowerment and education.
The Doctor is Minister of State designate for the Federal Capital Territory.
KATSINA STATE:
Ahmed Musa Dangiwa
Born on February 10, 1963, Ahmed Dangiwa holds a Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees in Architecture from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. He also holds Master’s in Business Administration from the same university.
During his five-year term at the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria from April 2017 to April 2022, he championed historic reforms that helped to reposition the nation’s foremost mortgage bank on the path of transparency, profitability, efficiency, and innovation, making a wide impact as a social housing delivery institution. He has been tapped to oversee the Housing and Urban Development ministry.
ALSO FROM KATSINA STATE:
Barr. Hannatu Musa Musawa
Born November 1, 1974, she possesses a multifaceted background as a lawyer, newspaper columnist, and former Special Adviser on Culture and Entertainment Economy to President Bola Tinubu. She served as Deputy Spokesperson and Deputy Director Public Affairs of the APC Presidential Campaign Council (PCC). She holds a degree in law from the University of Buckingham, UK and took a postgraduate Master’s Degree in the Legal Aspects of Marine Affairs from the University of Cardiff, Wales. She also has a postgraduate Master’s Degree in Oil and Gas Law from the University of Aberdeen. She is the Minister-designate for Art, Culture and the Creative Economy.
KEBBI STATE
Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, CON
Born 26th December, 1961, Senator Bagudu was the Governor of Kebbi State from 2015 to 2023. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Economics and Masters in Banking and Finance. He also possesses a Master of International Affairs in Economic Policy Management from Columbia University in the United States.
Senator Bagudu worked as an Economist at the Central Bank of Nigeria, lectured at the University of Sokoto and was at the World Bank/International Finance Corporation in Washington between 1992 and 1993. He represented Kebbi Central at the 7th Senate before his election as Governor of Kebbi State in 2015, serving two terms.
Senator Bagudu was Chairman of the Progressive Governors Forum from 2919 to 2023 and Chairman Presidential Taskforce on Rice and Wheat in Nigeria. He represented the then President-elect at the Presidential Transition Council.
He is a recipient of the national award of Commander of the Order of the Niger, CON and will man the Budget and Economic Planning Ministry.
ALSO FROM KEBBI STATE
Hon Dr Yusuf Tanko Sununu
Born 2nd February, 1967 at Ngaski, Kebbi State, Dr Sununu holds an MBBS from the University of Maiduguri. He worked at the Kebbi State Government House Clinic. Hon. Sununu represents Yauri/Shanga/Ngaski Federal Constituency. He is the Chairman, House committee on Health care services. He will serve as the Minister of State for Education.
KOGI STATE
Prince Shuaib Abubakar
Born on November 6, 1980, he holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Economics from the University of Leicester. He went further to acquire a Master of Science in International Securities, Investment, and Banking from Henley Business School, University of Reading, as well as an MBA from the University of Oxford, all in the United Kingdom. He worked at StanbicIBTC bank from 2003, getting to the position of Chief Executive of Stanbic IBTC Ventures Limited. He will serve as the Minister of Steel Development.
LAGOS STATE:
Dr Morufu Olatunji Alausa
Dr Tunji Alausa, was born in Epe, Lagos State. He earned his Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery from the University of Lagos in 1993. A United States Board-certified Nephrologist, he established Kidney Care Center and Dialysis Care Centre, in the United States. He served as Chief Medical Resident Cook County Hospital, Chicago, IL and Assistant Professor, Rush University Medical School. He was named one of America’s Best Physicians in 2007, 2012 and 2020. He also has other awards to his name. He will serve as the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare.
ALSO FROM Lagos State
Lola Ade-John
A seasoned executive known for her ability to lead strategic business transformations through creative design, seamless integration, effective deployment, and technology systems management.
Schooling at the University of Ibadan and her National Service in Warri formed the bedrock of Lola’s extensive career that has traversed not only the oil & gas and financial industry domains but also cultural landscapes, spanning across Africa, the United States, Europe, Middle-East and India.
Lola Ade-John’s wealth of experience in mentoring and advisory roles as well as strategic technology management, paired with her global exposure and solid education, positions her as a catalyst for innovative solutions and a driving force behind the success of organizations on a national and global scale.
She will serve as the Minister of Tourism.
NASARAWA STATE:
Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim
Born in Jos, Plateau State on April 19, 1980, she holds a Bachelors in Psychology from the University of Abuja and two Masters degrees in Business Administration and Management from the Webster University, Missouri (London Campus). She served as a member of the Nasarawa State Investment and Economic Advisory Council between August 2019 and May 2023.
Imaan was appointed Director General of the National Agency for the prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) in 2020 where she worked assiduously towards strengthening the National response to addressing irregular migration. She was later appointed the Federal Commissioner/Chief Executive Officer for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI). She will serve as the Minister of State, Police Affairs.
NIGER STATE
Senator Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi, CON
Senator Aliyu Abdullahi Bachelor’s degree in Veterinary Medicine from Ahmadu Bello University Zaria. An NYSC Presidential Award winner, he joined the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development in 1995 where he served in various capacities rising to the position of Deputy Director. He voluntarily retired and joined politics in 2014 and was elected Senator representing Niger North Senatorial District and was Spokesperson of the 8th Senate. He was re-elected for the same position at the 9th Senate. He will serve as Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security.
The Baraden Borgu is a Commander of the Order of the Niger, CON.
ALSO FROM NIGER STATE
Mohammed Idris
Born 2nd May, 1966 in Gbako, Niger State, he holds Masters and Bachelor’s degrees in English from Bayero University, Kano and University of Sokoto, now Usman Dan Fodio University respectively.
An accomplished media entrepreneur, an investor in real estate and the construction industry in Nigeria, and an active participant in the deployment of modern information and communication technologies as enablers of citizens’ engagement, job creation, and economic growth, he is the Chairman and Publisher of Blueprint Newspapers among others.
He was Director, Strategic Communication of the Tinubu/Shettima Presidential Campaign Council and Chairman Abuja Property Development Company from 2017 to 2023.
He will serve as Minister of Information and National Orientation.
OGUN STATE
Dr. Salako Iziaq Adekunle Adeboye
Dr. Salako Adeboye was born on 9th August 1967. He holds an MBBS degree from the University of Lagos (UNILAG) and a Master’s in Public Health from the Lagos State University (LASU). Salako is a certified Colposcopist and Sonologist. As medical personnel, he has worked in many tertiary health institutions, including the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH), Onicha General Hospital, Ebonyi State, St Rapm hel Hospital, Lagos, Mucas Hospital, Lagos and the Lagos State Health Service Commission, where he rose to the position of a Senior Medical Officer before leaving the government job to pursue other visions and endeavours. He served as Commissioner in three different ministries – Agriculture, Housing and Health in Ogun State, between July 2007 and May 2011. He will serve as the Minister of State for Environment.
ALSO FROM OGUN STATE
Adebayo Olawale Edun
Born on April 20, 1956, Mr Wale Edun is the Special Adviser on Monetary Policy to President Bola Tinubu. Edun has extensive experience in merchant banking, corporate finance, economics, and international finance. He has held various positions in financial institutions, including Chase Merchant Bank and the World Bank/IFC, and has also founded his own investment management firm, Denham Management Limited. He holds a Master’s Degree in Development Economics from the University of Sussex, Brighton, Sussex, UK and a Bachelor’s Degree in Economics from the University of London.
It is noteworthy that Mr Wale Edun was one of the two nominees of the then President-elect into the Presidential Transition Council.
He will serve as the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy.
ALSO FROM OGUN STATE
Dr. ‘Bosun Tijani
Dr. ‘Bosun Tijani, from Itoko, Abeokuta South LGA, Ogun State is an accomplished technology and innovation entrepreneur.
Born July 20th, 1977, he holds a Bachelor’s degree in Economics from the University of Jos, a Master’s degree in Information Systems and Management from Warwick University and a doctorate in Innovation and Economic Development from the University of Leicester, both in the United Kingdom.
After a stellar career working for leading organisations in innovation and entrepreneurship across Europe, he co-founded Co-Creation Hub Nigeria (CcHUB) in 2010 as Nigeria’s first technology hub. Under his leadership as CEO, CcHUB expanded to become the largest pan-African innovation centre with offices in Kenya, Rwanda and Namibia, with projects and activities in over 17 African Countries.
Dr. Tijani is a Desmond Tutu (Leadership) Fellow at the African Leadership Institute, London among other fellowships. He is also a visiting professor at the Wits School of Governance, South Africa.
He will serve as the Minister of Communications and Digital Economy
ONDO STATE
Hon. Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo
Hon. Tunji-Ojo, born on Workers Day, 1982, is a two-term representative of Akoko North East/Akoko North West Federal Constituency of Ondo State from 2019-2023. During his time in the House, he was Chairman of the Committee on Niger Delta Development Commission. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Electronics and Communication Engineering from London metropolitan University, along with several professional certifications in ICT. He will serve as the Minister of Interior.
OSUN STATE:
Adegboyega Oyetola, CON
Born 29th September, 1954 in Iragbiji, Osun State, Adegboyega Oyetola is the immediate past governor of Osun State. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Insurance and an MBA from the University of Lagos in 1978 and 1990 respectively.
Starting out as an Area Manager at Leadway Assurance Company limited in 1980, the former Governor went on to found his own business, the Silver Trust Insurance Brokers Limited in 1991 and had assumed board positions in leading organisations with diverse interests, including finance and real estate. He veered into the public sector and in 2011, became the Chief of Staff to the Governor of Osun State. He contested and won the election as the Governor of Osun State between 2018 and 2022.
His remarkable achievements as governor earned him several prestigious awards for his exemplary ability to manage the state’s affairs without resorting to borrowing while delivering substantial dividends of democracy. One of such was the World Bank’s States’ Fiscal Transparency, Accountability, and Sustainability (STAS) award for Efficiency in Public Expenditure among other awards. The recipient of the national award of Commander of the Order of the Niger will serve as the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy Ministry.
OYO STATE:
Adebayo Adekola Adelabu, OFR
The Officer of the Order of the Federal Republic, OFR recipient is an accomplished banker and financial consultant. Born 28th September 1970, Adebayo Adelabu was a former deputy governor of operations at the Central Bank of Nigeria and 2019 Oyo State gubernatorial candidate for the All Progressives Congress. Adelabu received a first-class degree in Accounting from Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife. He is a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), a Fellow of Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria and an Associate Member of the Institute of Directors of Nigeria and the United Kingdom. Adelabu has also taken up professional courses in various business schools, including Harvard, Stanford, Wharton, Columbia, Kelloggs, Euromoney, and the University of London. He will serve as the Minister of Power.
PLATEAU STATE
Rt Hon. (Dr) Simon Bako Lalong CON
Rt Hon. (Dr) Simon Bako Lalong the immediate past Executive Governor, Plateau State, was born on 5th May, 1963 in Shendam Local Government area. A graduate of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Mr. Lalong holds a Bachelors degree in Law (1990) and a Masters in Law (LL.M) from University of Jos.
In 1999 he contested and won election into the Plateau State House of Assembly, and was re- elected in 2003.
Rt. Hon Lalong was elected Speaker, in 2000, serving two terms as a member of the Plateau State House of Assembly.
He also served two terms as Governor, Plateau State, from 2015 to 2023.
Elected Chairman, Northern Governors’ Forum in 2019, Simon Lalong was the victorious Director General of the APC Presidential Campaign Council in the 2023 General Elections. A recipient of several Honourary degrees as well as traditional titles, Simon Lalong is a recipient of the national honour of the Commander of the Order of the Niger, CON.
He will serve in as Minister of Labour and Employment.
RIVERS STATE
Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, CON
Born on 13th December 1967, Nyesom Wike is a life bencher, Body of Benchers who served as two-term governor of Rivers State from 2015 to 2023. He was educated at Rivers State University of Science and Technology and University of Port Harcourt, where he obtained his Bachelor of Laws Degree and Bachelor of Science, Political and Administrative Studies, respectively. He served as Minister of State for Education and acting Minister of Education during the administration of President Goodluck Jonathan. Prior to this, he was elected as Executive Chairman of Obio Akpor Local Government Area from 1999 to 2007 and Chief of Staff, Government house, Port Harcourt between 2007 and 2011. Governor Wike has received numerous awards and recognitions for his outstanding achievements as governor of Rivers State.
He is a recipient of the national award of the Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON). He will serve as Minister of the Federal Capital Territory.
SOKOTO STATE
Barr. Bello Muhammad Goronyo
Barrister Bello Goronyo was born on New Year Day in 1966 at Sabon Garin Dole in Goronyo Local Government Area of Sokoto State.
He obtained a Bachelors Degree in Law at Usman Danfodio University Sokoto, in 1997, and was called to the Nigerian Bar in 2001. He also holds a Master’s Degrees in Energy Security Management from Nigerian Defence Academy Kaduna, in Business Management and Leadership from London Graduate School, UK as well as in Leadership and Strategic Studies, from Nigerian Defence Academy, Kaduna.
Barrister Goronyo was a two-time Member, Sokoto State House of Assembly, representing Goronyo Constituency between 2007 – 2015, where he served as Minority Leader, Deputy Leader and Deputy Speaker of the Sokoto State House of Assembly.
He was later appointed Commissioner of Solid Minerals, Energy Development as well as Information in the Government of Sokoto State between 2015 and 2018 .
He will serve as Minister of State for Water Resources and Sanitation.
TARABA STATE:
Uba Maigari Ahmadu
A lawyer by profession, Ahmadu was born on September 6, 1966 in Donga Local Government Area of Taraba State. He was a former Deputy Governor from 2003 to 2004. He was also a Managing Partner at Dangari & Maigari Solicitors & Advocates between 1992 and 1996.
Uba Ahmadu was a board member of the Federal Road Maintenance Agency representing the Northeast and also served as Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Taraba State from December 2022-March 2023. He will serve as Minister of State for Steel Development.
YOBE STATE:
Senator Ibrahim Gaidam
Born on September 15, 1956 in Bukarti, Yobe State Senator Gaidam has a Bachelor’s Degree in Accountancy from Ahmadu Bello University. He rose from an Accountant in the defunct Directorate of Foods, Roads and Rural Infrastructure to Director in the state Ministry of Health. He was also Commissioner in various ministries before his election as Deputy Governor and Executive Governor of Yobe State between 2007 and 2015. He presently represents Yobe East in the Nigerian Senate.
He will serve as the Minister of Police Affairs.
ZAMFARA STATE
Dr. Bello Mohammed Matawalle
Dr. Bello Mohammed Matawalle, MON, was born on 12th February, 1962, in Maradun Local Government Area, of Zamfara State. He is the immediate past Executive Governor of the State.
A recipient of the Member of the Order of the Niger (MON) in 2006, Bello Matawalle attended Vocational Training Centre, Bunza, between 1980 and 1985 for his Senior School Certificate. A man of humble beginning, he started his service to the nation as a Clerical Officer in the old Sokoto State Ministry of Health in 1985 before he became a classroom teacher at between 1990 and 1993.
Between 1999 and 2003, Bello Matawalle was the Honourable Commissioner, Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Zamfara State and in 2003, was elected Member, House of Representatives, representing the Bakura/ Maradun Federal Constituency, till 2015.
He was Member, Presidential Committee on Dialogue and Peaceful Resolution of Security Challenges in the North, and was elected Governor in 2019.Dr Matawalle will serve as the Minister of State for Defence.
FCT:
Hon. Zaphaniah Bitrus Jisalo, MFR
Born April 3, 1970, he represented Abuja Municipal/Bwari Federal Constituency of FCT in the 7th and 8th National Assembly. He also served as the Chairman of Abuja Municipal Area Council from 2004 to 2010. He holds a degree in Education from the University of Jos and has earned various certificates in governance and policies.
The holder of the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic, MFR will serve as the Minister of Special duties and Inter-governmental Affairs.
