The positions of ministers of defence and power which had long been vacant will finally be filled today as President Goodluck Jonathan swears in his two nominees.
Although no official statement has been issued in this regard, a source in the Presidency told THISDAY that the president may carry out a minor cabinet reshuffle in order to place the new entrants in their areas of competence.
Former minister of defence, Bello Muhammad Halliru, was relieved of his appointment along with the late Gen. Andrew Owoye Azazi, the former National Security Adviser.
Former minister of defence, Bello Muhammad Halliru, was relieved of his appointment along with the late Gen. Andrew Owoye Azazi, the former National Security Adviser.
While there was no delay in the appointment of a new NSA, the defence portfolio has since been handled by the minister of state in the ministry, Erelu Olusola Obada.
Similarly, the position of Muhammad's power counterpart, Prof. Bart Nnaji has been vacant.
President Jonathan mid last month nominated Kabiru Tanimu Turaki from Kebbi and the former Vice Chancellor of University of Nsukka, Prof Chinedu Nebo, from Enugu. They were confirmed by the Senate and will be sworn-in by 11:00 am today.
While it seems unlikely that Turaki will step into the shoes of Muhammad, Prof.Nebo
May clinch the power portfolio. The Presidency source said the minor reshuffling may see one or two ministers trading places to accommodate Turaki as minister of state.
He said Turaki's portfolio would be clear only after they have been inaugurated.
Also, President Jonathan will today receive his Indonesian counterpart Susilo Bambang Yudhoyone.
Also, President Jonathan will today receive his Indonesian counterpart Susilo Bambang Yudhoyone.
The president is also expected to flag-off the celebration of the country's centenary at 7.00pm in the State House.