Wale Edun Resumes As Finance Minister, Issues Directives

The Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, has assumed his new role after his swearing-in at the Presidential Villa on Monday.

Addressing the ministry’s staff members during a welcome ceremony held in his honour, Edun directed that efforts must be made to ensure President Bola Tinubu’s economic reforms are effective.

The former Lagos State Commissioner for Finance said the duty of the staff was to reduce the pains of Nigerians and ensure that the economy is buoyant for all citizens.

The new minister directed the ministry’s staff to do everything possible to help the most vulnerable and the poorest in society.

Edun also called for collaboration with the staff to ensure that Nigeria is on the course of rapid, sustained, and inclusive growth.

He said: “The expectations of Nigerians are heightened. Mr President has already set the ball rolling to put Nigeria on the course that will take it to rapid, sustained, and inclusive growth.

“He has taken key macro monetary policy measures and fiscal policy measures. He has changed the economy of Nigeria already.

“However, it has come with the initial pain that comes from correction, and it is our duty to help him to ensure that the pain is minimised and his period is shortened.

“That everything that can be done to help the most vulnerable, to help the poorest in society. When we look at the price of fuel N617 per litre, look at the price of bread; I suppose it depends on the size, but at least it’s N1000.

“We know that we have a job to do, of making sure that these reforms do not leave people behind.

“You’re all talented; you’re good. There’s huge talent here, and there’s a huge expectation.

“I’ve had interaction, whether it’s through the Presidential Transition Council. I’ve had interactions with finance, with the SGS office in virtually the whole of the civil service in one way or the other. I’ve seen the ability to perform.

“I’ve seen the digitalisation, the automation and the use of technology. So, you can do it. I will just like to say let us work together as a team to achieve.”