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"Tinubu Did Not Appoint Himself Petroleum Minister" – Onanuga Fires Back at Critics

By Achimi Muktari

In a move to dispel ongoing speculations, Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Information and Strategy, has firmly denied reports that the president holds the title of Nigeria’s substantive petroleum minister. Onanuga made this clarification during an appearance on Channels Television's Politics Today on Sunday, addressing the media-driven claims head-on.

"Tinubu Never Called Himself Petroleum Minister"

When questioned about President Tinubu’s role in the oil sector, Onanuga was quick to set the record straight, stating that the president never assumed the title of Minister of Petroleum, contrary to popular belief. "The President has never called himself the Minister of Petroleum. You people in the media gave him that position," Onanuga responded, visibly frustrated by the persistent rumors.

He further emphasized that the oil sector is under the leadership of two appointed ministers who are actively managing the country’s energy affairs. “We have two ministers there. One of them focuses on gas, a sector this government identified as being previously neglected. Nigeria is more of a gas country than an oil country, and President Tinubu is working to correct that oversight.”

A Focus on Gas: Correcting the Past

Onanuga noted that former President Olusegun Obasanjo himself recently admitted to neglecting the gas sector during his time in office. "President Tinubu is rectifying that by prioritizing gas. This is part of his broader strategy to drive Nigeria towards energy independence and economic growth," Onanuga explained.

In response to suggestions that Tinubu might be micromanaging, Onanuga pointed out that it is the president’s role to supervise all ministries. "The president oversees all his ministers, ensuring they are aligned with his vision. He is in charge, but he trusts his team to handle the day-to-day operations."

"Tinubu Feels Nigerians’ Pain"

Onanuga also addressed accusations that Tinubu is indifferent to the hardships Nigerians are currently facing, particularly following fuel subsidy removal. "President Tinubu feels the pain of Nigerians. He has never shied away from acknowledging the difficult times, and he is committed to providing relief," Onanuga assured.

Critics have labeled the president with nicknames like 'T-pain,' insinuating he is disconnected from the public’s struggles. Onanuga, however, refuted this, stating, "He’s here to heal, not to hurt. This is a painful transition, but it’s part of a long-term strategy to stabilize and grow the economy."

The Road Ahead: Promises of Relief

Onanuga concluded by reassuring Nigerians that relief is on the horizon. While the government continues its reforms, the president remains focused on building a more prosperous future for all citizens. "This is not about short-term fixes but about laying the foundation for a stronger, more resilient economy," he said.

As Nigeria navigates these turbulent times, President Tinubu's administration is positioning itself for significant reforms, particularly in the energy sector, with gas development at the forefront of its agenda. Whether these efforts will bear fruit remains to be seen, but the message from Onanuga is clear: President Tinubu is fully in charge, and his eyes are set on the future.