President Muhammadu Buhari on Friday bade farewell to outgoing members of the Federal Executive Council (FEC), affirming that a significant number of them have been sufficiently equipped to aspire to succeed him.
A statement by Femi Adesina, Special Adviser to the President on Media & Publicity, quoted him as expressing optimism that one of them could succeed him.
He said, ”I have no doubt that if the next President emerges from among former members of this cabinet, like any other aspirant, ample competence and outstanding service delivery would be on display. This will be part of our legacies to Nigerians.”
The President, who commended the departing public officers for serving the nation sacrificially, ”with dignity and honour”, had at the last FEC meeting on Wednesday, May 11, 2022 directed that all Ministers and other political appointees who aspire to contest for elective offices in the 2023 General Elections should resign their current appointments.
“I note that some have complied while others are in the process of doing so.
“I would like to use this opportunity to commend your decision and courage to contest for elective offices and your compliance with my directive.
“I also wish to thank you for your invaluable services to this nation through your contributions as Cabinet members.
“I wish you success in the upcoming elections and in your future endeavours,” he said.
The outgoing cabinet members include ministers of Petroleum Timpre Sylva, Labour & Employment Chris Ngige, Minister of State Mines & Steel Uche Ogah, Minister of Justice Abubakar Malami, Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi, Minister of Niger Delta Godswill Akpabio, Minister of Science Technology Ogbonnaya Onu, Minister of Women Affairs Pauline Tallen, Minister of State Niger Delta Tayo Alasoadu.
