We don’t need more ministers

On Tuesday, President Muhammadu Buhari said he would expand the federal executive council, an indication that more ministers will be appointed. I don’t think the ministers we have at the moment are doing much to improve the state of things in the country. Secondly, I don’t think they were properly placed. We have a situation where square pegs were put in round holes. So, the problem we have is not inadequate ministers. Those we have haven’t done anything, so why do we need more? We will just end up adding to the problem we already have. I urge the president to first of all, sack all those who are not performing.

Resources are scarce and we cannot afford to waste what we have on non-performing ministers. After that, the president should consult widely and ensure that only competent people are appointed. I agree that the president belongs to a party and members of his party should be carried along but I urge him to look beyond party in selecting the next set of ministers.

We need people who can perform. If possible, the president should go for technocrats. They should also be made to understand that they will be shown the way out if they fail to perform. Also, I urge the president to appoint boards for all agencies and parastatals as soon as possible. I must state very clearly that only competent people can help drive the change agenda.