Cabinet reshuffle imminent as Jonathan swears in new ministers

President Goodluck Jonathan on Monday administered the oath of office on two new ministers that were recently cleared by the Senate.

They were Prof. Chinedu Nebo and Alhaji Kabiru Saminu Turaki (SAN).

However, Jonathan did not announce their portfolios, directing the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator Anyim Pius Anyim, to issue them letters assigning them portfolios before the next Cabinet meeting on Wednesday.

The President likened himself to a coach, introducing new players barely 10 minutes to the end of a crucial game.

He thus challenged the new ministers to prove their worth as they come on board.

He said: “We are admitting two new ministers into our fold.

“Just like when the coach introduces sometimes 10 minutes to the end of the game and you are introduced to the field, they expect you to score the next goal

“So, Nigerians are expecting that if I am bringing ministers in at this time, I must be bringing people that will strengthen the team and make sure I bring people that will score more goals than we are already scoring.

“And if Nigerians don’t realise that, they will feel that I am not a good coach.

“So, you are welcome on board.

“You will be formerly inaugurated again on Wednesday when we will have the FEC meeting.

“You will get your letter from the SGF and I will assign you to where we think you will serve this great country.”

It will be recalled that two ministerial seats became vacant last year sequel to the sack of Alhaji Mohammed Bello Haliru as Defence Minister and resignation of the erstwhile Minister of Power, Prof Bath Nnaji.

Meanwhile, there is strong indication that the President may effect a minor cabinet reshuffle before Wednesday.

Rather than the two new ministers being assigned Defence and Power portfolios, one of the old ministers with military background may be moved to Defence.