Tinubu Appoints El-Rufai’s Man As Minister

President Bola Tinubu has nominated Abbas Balarabe as the ministerial nominee from Kaduna State to replace former Governor Nasir El-Rufai whose nomination was earlier rejected by the Senate.

The Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, read out a letter from President Tinubu during the plenary on Tuesday seeking Balarabe’s confirmation.

Balarabe had served as Secretary to the Kaduna State Government during El-Rufai’s tenure.

Tinubu said in his letter to the Senate: “In compliance with the provisions of section 147, sub-section 2 of the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria1999 as amended.

“I am pleased to forward to the Senate three nominees for confirmation of Senate.

“Dr Jamila Biu Ibrahim, Balarabe Abass Lawal, and Ayodele Olawale for confirmation as Ministers of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

“While I hope that this request will receive the usual expeditious consideration of the Senate, please accept the Distinguished Senate President and Distinguished Senators, the usual assurances of my highest regards.”

Akpabio, after reading the letter said the request would be referred to the Committee of the Whole for an expeditious action at the next legislative date.