In a move aimed at filling a key ministerial vacancy, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has formally submitted the nomination of Kingsley Tochukwu Ude (SAN) to the Senate for screening and confirmation as a Minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
The letter, dated Monday, was read during plenary by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, who immediately referred it to the Committee of the Whole for urgent consideration.
Dr. Ude, who currently serves as the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice in Enugu State, recently earned the prestigious rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), further boosting his profile for federal appointment.
Filling the Enugu Ministerial Vacancy
Dr. Ude’s nomination comes in the wake of the resignation of Uche Nnaji, the former Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, who stepped down last month following allegations regarding discrepancies in his academic and NYSC credentials.
Nnaji, the sole minister representing Enugu State in the federal cabinet, faced scrutiny over purported irregularities in certificates obtained from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), and the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC).
The resignation left a notable gap in Enugu’s representation at the federal level, prompting President Tinubu to act swiftly in nominating a replacement with a strong legal and administrative background.
Ude’s Credentials and Career
Kingsley Tochukwu Ude’s career spans decades of legal service and public administration in Enugu State. As the sitting Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, he has overseen key reforms in the state’s legal framework.
His recent elevation to SAN underscores his recognition as one of Nigeria’s top legal minds, positioning him as a credible candidate for ministerial duties.
Senate Screening and Recent Precedents
Following the letter’s submission, the Senate is expected to conduct a thorough screening of Dr. Ude, a process that could determine the trajectory of Enugu State’s representation in the federal executive.
The nomination comes shortly after Bernard Doro, a nominee from Plateau State, was confirmed by the Senate in a session lasting under 30 minutes. Doro outlined plans to develop an “inclusive humanitarian ecosystem,” signaling the administration’s focus on innovation and social impact through its ministerial appointments.
The Senate Committee of the Whole is expected to deliberate on Dr. Ude’s qualifications, professional track record, and potential contributions to the federal cabinet.
Also Read: Wike Defends Taking Sons on UAE Official Trip Amid Criticism
Approval would fill the long-standing ministerial vacancy for Enugu State, ensuring continuity in representation and policy implementation at the national level.
With Dr. Ude’s nomination, President Tinubu continues to strengthen his cabinet with individuals who combine professional expertise, legal acumen, and administrative experience—a move that could enhance governance and public confidence in the federal executive.
