Edun, Dangiwa Stepped Down Voluntarily, Not Fired, Says Presidency

Edun, Dangiwa Stepped Down Voluntarily, Not Fired, Says Presidency

The Presidency on Wednesday moved to clear the air over recent cabinet changes, stating that former Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, and former Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Ahmed Musa Dangiwa, resigned their positions voluntarily.

The clarification follows speculation that both men were removed from office. However, official sources said their exits were based on personal decisions rather than dismissal.

Edun was said to have submitted his resignation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on health grounds ahead of the announcement of his successor. The veteran economist, who recently turned 70, reportedly opted to step aside to focus on his recovery and private engagements.

In a letter to the President, Edun expressed appreciation for the opportunity to serve, describing his time in office as both rewarding and fulfilling.

“It has been a pleasure and privilege to serve your administration and the Renewed Hope Agenda,” he wrote, adding that he wished the government continued success.

He had earlier met with the President at the Presidential Villa in Abuja in what sources described as a valedictory visit, shortly before his exit was made public.

Similarly, Dangiwa also tendered his resignation, thanking the President for the chance to contribute to governance through the Federal Executive Council.

An architect by profession, Dangiwa previously served as Managing Director of the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria and held key positions in Katsina State before his ministerial appointment in August 2023.

Edun, a seasoned investment banker, had a long-standing career spanning public service and international finance. He served as Commissioner for Finance in Lagos State during Tinubu’s tenure as governor and held roles in institutions such as the World Bank and private sector financial firms.

President Tinubu, while acknowledging their departures, commended both former ministers for their service and contributions, particularly in advancing economic and housing reforms.

Following the changes, the President has directed the new Finance Minister, Taiwo Oyedele, to build on existing reforms and drive fiscal policies with renewed focus.

Meanwhile, a nominee, Muttaqha Rabe Darma, is expected to be presented to the Senate for confirmation as the next Minister of Housing in the coming days.