Nigeria’s Senate has confirmed the appointment of Taiwo Oyedele as a minister in the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, marking a key change in the country’s economic leadership.
The confirmation was announced by Senate President Godswill Akpabio after lawmakers approved the nomination through a voice vote during the Committee of the Whole session at the Senate of Nigeria on Wednesday.
Oyedele is expected to take over as Minister of State for Finance, replacing Doris Uzoka-Anite, who has been reassigned to serve as Minister of State for Budget and National Planning.
The Senate subjected Oyedele to a screening session that lasted more than two hours before clearing him for the role.
During the session, the nominee described his appointment as a national duty at a crucial time for the Nigerian economy.
According to him, the position represents an opportunity to apply decades of experience in fiscal governance and economic reform.
“With over two decades of experience working with governments, global corporations, and multilateral institutions, this moment is not about personal achievements but about service,” he told lawmakers.
Before his nomination, Oyedele served as chairman of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms.
Appointed in July 2023, he led the development of a comprehensive tax reform programme aimed at restructuring Nigeria’s revenue system.
The reform initiative introduced several new tax laws that eventually took effect on January 1 after nearly two years of legislative work and consultations.
The reforms are designed to strengthen revenue generation, simplify tax administration, and create a more business-friendly environment to attract domestic and foreign investment.
Oyedele is widely recognised as a public policy expert, economist, and accountant with extensive experience across both the private and public sectors.
His career has included advisory roles to governments and international organisations, particularly in areas related to taxation, fiscal policy, and economic transformation.
Speaking during the confirmation process, he thanked President Tinubu for the nomination and expressed appreciation to the Senate for the opportunity to present his vision for Nigeria’s economic management.
“I am deeply honoured to appear before this distinguished chamber,” he said, pledging to contribute to fiscal stability and national development.
