7 Ministers Under Tinubu’s Cabinet not Living up to Expectations

As President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration hits its second anniversary, scrutiny intensifies over the performance of his cabinet. 

While some ministers in his cabinet have garnered praise for their initiatives, others have faced criticism for underperformance. Here is an overview of the top ministers whose tenures have raised concerns among Nigerians.

Ayodele Olawande – Minister of Youth Development

Despite being one of the younger faces in the cabinet, Ayodele Olawande’s tenure has been marked by a lack of tangible outcomes. Key initiatives such as the National Youth Congress, National Youth Development Bank, and the Nigerian Youth Academy (NIYA) have seen limited progress. The absence of a clear framework and timeline for these projects has led to questions about the ministry’s effectiveness .

Muhammad Badaru Abubakar – Minister of Defence

Under Muhammad Badaru’s leadership, Nigeria has experienced escalating insecurity, particularly in the northeastern and northwestern regions. The resurgence of groups like Boko Haram and ISWAP, coupled with increased banditry, has raised concerns about the nation’s security apparatus. Civil society organizations have called for accountability, citing perceived incompetence and political opportunism.

Bello Matawalle – Minister of State for Defence

Bello Matawalle’s tenure has been marred by allegations of corruption and ties to banditry. Investigations by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) suggest the diversion of ₦70 billion through phantom contracts during his time as governor. Additionally, accusations of providing support to bandit leaders have further tarnished his reputation, leading to public outcry and demands for his resignation .

Adebayo Adelabu – Minister of Power

Despite surviving a cabinet reshuffle in October 2024, Adebayo Adelabu’s tenure has been characterized by persistent power outages and grid collapses. The national grid experienced multiple collapses in 2024, disrupting economic activities and daily life. Critics have questioned his ability to address the sector’s challenges effectively.

Wale Edun – Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy

Wale Edun has overseen significant economic reforms, including the removal of fuel subsidies and the unification of exchange rates. While these measures aim to stabilize the economy, they have led to high inflation and increased hardship for many Nigerians. The government’s 15% inflation target for 2025 has been met with skepticism, and concerns about the slow implementation of reforms persist .

Ahmed Dangiwa – Minister of Housing and Urban Development

Ahmed Dangiwa has faced criticism for the underperformance of housing finance agencies like the Federal Housing Authority (FHA) and the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN). Despite receiving substantial government support, these agencies have failed to meet their mandates. Dangiwa’s recent inauguration of reform task teams shows the need for comprehensive reforms to unlock the sector’s potential .

Abba Kyari – Minister of Agriculture and Food Security

Abba Kyari’s leadership in the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security has been under scrutiny amid Nigeria’s ongoing food crisis. Despite the country’s vast arable land, food prices continue to rise, and hunger persists. Critics argue that the ministry’s response has been passive, and the creation of a separate Ministry of Livestock Development may indicate inefficiencies within the agricultural sector.