Nigerian President Bola Tinubu has enacted a significant cabinet reshuffle, dismissing five ministers and appointing seven new ones as part of an effort to enhance governmental efficiency. This decision comes against the backdrop of escalating economic hardships that have prompted widespread protests against his administration.
The reshuffle includes the reassignment of ten ministers to new roles, the renaming of the Ministry of Niger Delta Development to the Ministry of Regional Development, and the closure of the Sports Ministry. Additionally, the ministries of tourism and arts and culture have been merged.
Since assuming office in May 2023, Tinubu has pursued reforms aimed at addressing Nigeria's mounting economic challenges, including the devaluation of the naira and the reduction of petrol and electricity subsidies. These measures have contributed to inflation reaching a 28-year high of 32.70%, while the naira has fallen to record lows against the dollar.
Despite being one of Africa's leading crude oil producers, Nigeria faces severe poverty, with public officials' lifestyles often starkly contrasting with the general populace's struggles. Furthermore, ongoing strikes by medical professionals highlight the dissatisfaction with low salaries.
The situation is exacerbated by recent warnings from the United Nations regarding a growing disaster in Nigeria, where flooding has impacted over 1.2 million individuals, leading to overcrowded shelters and significant damage in agricultural regions.