Former Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, has expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the opportunity to serve, hours after his removal from the Federal Executive Council.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, Edun reflected on his time in office, describing his service as both an honour and a privilege during what he called a critical phase in Nigeria’s economic journey.
“I wish to thank His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR for the opportunity to serve our country from the outset of his administration in May 2023; first as head of the Presidential Transition Committee, then in my role as Special Adviser on Monetary Policy, before my appointment as Honorable Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy,” Edun said.
“It has been an honour to contribute to the implementation of the administration’s economic agenda at a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s journey.”
Edun’s reaction comes a day after President Tinubu approved a cabinet reshuffle that saw him replaced by Mr Taiwo Oyedele, who was previously Minister of State for Finance.
The former minister noted that the Tinubu administration inherited a fragile economy, marked by significant fiscal and macroeconomic challenges. He, however, maintained that reforms introduced under the government helped stabilise the economy and lay the groundwork for sustainable growth.
According to him, economic growth improved from about two per cent to over four per cent during his tenure, while inflation dropped from 35 percent to 15 percent.
He attributed these outcomes to deliberate efforts to rebuild public confidence, attract investment, and improve coordination across government institutions.
“I am proud of what we achieved alongside colleagues in the federal executive council, state governors, our partners in the public and private sectors, and the many dedicated professionals whose work continues to support the nation’s economic transformation,” he said.
Edun acknowledged that challenges remain but expressed confidence that the reforms initiated by the administration have set Nigeria on a clearer path to long-term economic stability.
He also thanked both domestic and international stakeholders for their support, noting that collaboration played a key role in driving policy implementation.
Looking ahead, the former minister wished his successor and other members of the cabinet success in continuing efforts to improve the living conditions of Nigerians.
He added that he remains committed to supporting the administration’s broader goals.
“I am proud of what we achieved alongside colleagues in the federal executive council, state governors, our partners in the public and private sectors, and the many dedicated professionals whose work continues to support the nation’s economic transformation,” he added.
