President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Thursday swore in two new ministers Bernard Mohammed Doro and Kingsley Tochukwu Udeh during a brief ceremony at the Council Chamber of the State House, Abuja. The swearing-in took place moments before the President presided over the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting.
Doro, a pharmacist, lawyer, and seasoned health practitioner from Plateau State, replaces Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda, the former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, who resigned after emerging as the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC). The Senate had earlier confirmed Doro’s nomination in October.
Udeh, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) from Enugu State, replaces Uche Nnaji, the former Minister of Science, Innovation and Technology, who stepped down following allegations of certificate forgery. The Senate confirmed Udeh’s appointment earlier on Thursday during plenary.
Born in 1978, Udeh previously served as Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice in Enugu State. His screening session in the Senate featured questions on national and international matters.
Senator Abdul Ningi asked Udeh to comment on the ongoing diplomatic tension triggered by U.S. President Donald Trump’s threat over alleged Christian killings in Nigeria a question that momentarily caused an uproar, with some lawmakers insisting he had already demonstrated competence.
In response, Udeh said the issue was primarily diplomatic, noting that President Tinubu was already addressing it through appropriate channels.
Senator Adamu Aliero also sought his views on separating the Office of the Attorney General of the Federation from the Minister of Justice. Udeh said that whether the offices are merged or separated, “the integrity and independence of the individual in charge” remain the crucial factors.
Satisfied with his answers, the Senate asked him to “take a bow and leave,” after which he was confirmed as minister.
Udeh’s appointment comes just weeks after Uche Nnaji resigned from the cabinet over certificate forgery allegations.
