Taiwo Oyedele Takes Oath as Minister of State for Finance
…Pledges Focus on Revenue and Accountability
By Patience Ikpeme
Renowned tax expert and fiscal policy specialist, Taiwo Oyedele, has officially stepped into his new role as the Minister of State for Finance, promising to turn public resources into visible improvements for the lives of everyday Nigerians.
Following his swearing-in ceremony performed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Monday, the new Minister shared his vision for the nation’s treasury. His primary responsibility will involve assisting the senior Minister of Finance in managing the country’s multi-trillion naira budget, supervising revenue agencies, and ensuring that government spending follows strict rules to avoid waste.
In a statement reflecting on his new assignment, Oyedele expressed deep appreciation for the trust placed in him by the Presidency and the Senate. He described the position not as a personal achievement, but as a serious “call to greater service” during a time when the country faces significant financial hurdles.
“Nigeria faces important fiscal challenges, but also immense opportunities,” Oyedele said. “The decisions we make in public finance today will shape the prosperity, stability, and well-being of our country for generations to come.”
The Minister of State for Finance clarified that his work will center on making sure the government collects what it is owed more efficiently while being careful with how that money is used. He noted that the ultimate goal of his office is to bridge the gap between government numbers and the reality of the citizens.
“In my new role, I will focus on supporting efforts to strengthen revenue mobilisation, promote fiscal discipline, and ensure that public resources translate into real improvements in the lives of Nigerians,” he stated.
To achieve these goals, Oyedele plans to work hand-in-hand with the Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, as well as the National Assembly and private business leaders. This teamwork is intended to create a stable environment where the government can fund long-term projects like roads, schools, and healthcare without falling into unsustainable debt.
Addressing the weight of his new office, the Minister pointed out that Nigerians expect honesty and hard work from their leaders. He pledged to approach his duties with a focus on the people’s needs rather than the prestige of the office.
“Public service demands integrity, humility, and dedication,” Oyedele noted. “I step into this responsibility with a deep sense of duty and commitment to Nigeria and the Nigerian people.”
As he moves from his previous role leading the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms into this executive position, Oyedele signaled that there would be no delay in tackling the nation’s economic tasks. He concluded his remarks by asking for the continued support of the public as he begins the difficult work of fixing the country’s finances, simply stating, “The work begins.”
