Presidency Clarifies Edun and Dangiwa Resigned Voluntarily, Not Sacked
The Presidency has officially clarified that the recent departures of two key ministers from the Federal Executive Council were voluntary resignations, not dismissals. Former Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, and former Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Ahmed Musa Dangiwa, both stepped down from their positions, with the administration emphasizing their contributions and the amicable nature of their exits.
Edun's Resignation Due to Health Reasons
According to authoritative sources within the government, Wale Edun tendered his resignation to President Bola Tinubu on health grounds before the announcement of his replacement. Edun, who celebrated his 70th birthday on Monday, has reportedly faced recent health challenges, prompting his decision to resign in order to focus on recovery and private engagements. In a letter submitted on his birthday, Edun expressed profound gratitude to President Tinubu for the opportunity to serve, describing his tenure as both an honour and a privilege.
He wrote, "It has been a pleasure and privilege to serve your administration and the Renewed Hope Agenda. Under your leadership, Nigeria has emerged stronger, more resilient and more internationally respected. I wish you and the administration every success in the future." Prior to the formal announcement of his departure, Edun paid a valedictory visit to the President at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, where they held a closed-door meeting lasting approximately one hour.
Dangiwa's Voluntary Departure
Similarly, Ahmed Musa Dangiwa resigned his appointment and thanked President Tinubu for the opportunity to serve on the Federal Executive Council. Dangiwa, an architect by training, had a distinguished career prior to his ministerial role, including serving as Managing Director of the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria from 2015 to 2022 and as Secretary to the Katsina State Government. He was appointed as minister in August 2023 and has now chosen to step down voluntarily.
Backgrounds and Contributions
Wale Edun, an investment banker and seasoned economist, has a long history of public service and international finance. He served as Commissioner for Finance in Lagos State between 1999 and 2004 during Tinubu's tenure as governor. His career includes stints at Chase Merchant Bank and the World Bank, and he co-founded Investment Banking & Trust Company, which later became Stanbic IBTC. He also established Denham Management Limited, which evolved into the Chapelhill Denham Group.
President Tinubu, in acknowledging the departures of both ministers, commended them for their dedication and significant contributions to the administration's economic and housing reforms. He wished them continued success in their future endeavours, highlighting their roles in advancing Nigeria's development agenda.
Next Steps for the Administration
Following these resignations, President Tinubu has directed the new Minister of Finance, Taiwo Oyedele, to consolidate ongoing reforms and advance fiscal and economic objectives with renewed focus, discipline, and innovation. Meanwhile, a ministerial nominee for the Housing Ministry, Muttaqha Rabe Darma, is expected to be forwarded to the Senate for confirmation in the coming days, ensuring continuity in governance and policy implementation.
