The Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, has stepped down from her position, expressing appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for the opportunity to serve.
Announcing her resignation in a statement shared on her X account on Friday, Onyejeocha said her decision was taken with deep gratitude to the President and his administration.
“It is with a heart full of gratitude that I announce my resignation as Honourable Minister of State for Labour and Employment.
”This decision comes with profound gratitude to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for the opportunity to serve Nigeria in his administration,” she said.
She described her departure as the end of an important phase in her public service career, while reaffirming her dedication to national development.
“This is not an end but a new beginning. I remain committed to service, to progress, and to building the Nigeria we all deserve,” she added.
The former minister also thanked the President for his leadership and trust, noting that contributing to the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda was both an honour and a privilege.
She extended appreciation to staff and officials of the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, commending their professionalism and commitment, which she said helped drive policies focused on workers’ rights, workplace safety, and job creation.
Onyejeocha further acknowledged the support of her constituents in Isuikwuato/Umunneochi Federal Constituency, describing their encouragement as invaluable throughout her time in office.
Addressing Nigerians, she said: “Thank you for your support, feedback, and constructive engagement during my tenure. Serving Nigeria has been the greatest privilege of my life.”
Her resignation comes in compliance with a directive issued by President Tinubu, requiring all political appointees seeking elective office in the 2027 general elections to step down by March 31, 2026, in order to ensure fairness in the political process.
The directive, conveyed through the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, applies to ministers, aides, and heads of government agencies, in line with provisions of the Electoral Act 2026.
Following the order, several other cabinet members have also resigned to pursue political ambitions.
These include Yusuf Tuggar, who is seeking the governorship of Bauchi State; Sa’idu Ahmed Alkali, aiming for the Gombe State governorship; and Yusuf Sununu, who is contesting for the Kebbi South senatorial seat.
Onyejeocha reiterated that while her tenure as minister has ended, her commitment to national service remains unchanged, signalling a transition to the next phase of her political journey.
