By By Elizabeth Ugbo
Former Minister of Finance, Wale Edun, and Housing Minister, Ahmed Musa Dangiwa, resigned on Tuesday in Abuja, citing health and personal reasons. Bola Ahmed Tinubu accepted their resignations and immediately appointed Taiwo Oyedele as the new Minister of Finance to sustain economic reforms.
Edun’s Resignation and Career Highlights
Edun stepped down after decades of service in banking, global finance, and public administration. He reportedly submitted his resignation on his 70th birthday, citing health concerns.
Earlier in his career, he worked at Chase Merchant Bank in Lagos between 1980 and 1986. Afterwards, he joined the World Bank through its Young Professionals Programme.
In 1989, he co-founded Investment Banking & Trust Company Limited, now known as Stanbic IBTC. Later, he established Denham Management Limited, which evolved into Chapelhill Denham Group.
He also served as Lagos State Commissioner for Finance from 1999 to 2004 under Tinubu’s governorship.
In his resignation letter, Edun expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve. He noted that Nigeria had grown stronger and more resilient under Tinubu’s leadership.
Dangiwa’s Exit and Contributions
Dangiwa also resigned voluntarily and thanked the President for the opportunity to serve. He exited after contributing to housing and urban development policies.
Before his ministerial role, he served as Managing Director of the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria from 2015 to 2022. He also held the position of Secretary to the Katsina State Government.
Presidency Clarifies Resignations
The Presidency clarified that both officials resigned voluntarily and were not dismissed. According to presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga, their exits followed personal decisions rather than disciplinary action.
Moreover, Edun paid a valedictory visit to the President at the Presidential Villa before his departure. The meeting lasted about an hour and allowed final discussions.
Tinubu Appoints Taiwo Oyedele, Sets Reform Agenda
Following the resignations, Tinubu appointed Taiwo Oyedele as the new Minister of Finance. He tasked Oyedele with consolidating ongoing reforms and strengthening fiscal discipline.
The President emphasized the need for innovation and focus in achieving economic objectives. Consequently, Oyedele is expected to drive the administration’s reform agenda forward.
New Housing Minister Nomination Expected
Meanwhile, Tinubu plans to nominate Muttaqha Rabe Darma as the new Minister of Housing. The nominee hails from Katsina State, like Dangiwa.
The Senate will review and confirm the nomination in the coming weeks.
Transition Signals Policy Recalibration
These developments reflect a broader adjustment within the Federal Executive Council. The administration continues to recalibrate governance strategies and economic reforms.
Additionally, the changes signal a renewed commitment to efficiency and long-term national development.
