President Bola Tinubu inaugurated Balarabe Lawal as the Minister of Environment on Monday. Jamila Bio Ibrahim also took office as the Minister of Youth Development, while Ayodele Olawande became the Minister of State for Youth Development. The swearing-in ceremony was held before the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting at the Council Chamber of the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
According to a statement from the Presidency, Lawal’s primary responsibility is to implement environmental policies, address climate change challenges, and ensure proper waste management practices in the country. The statement further reads that “the minister of environment is responsible for formulating and implementing environmental policies” and oversees initiatives to protect and conserve the nation’s natural resources. They also promote public awareness of environmental sustainability.
Lawal previously served as the Secretary to the Kaduna State Government during former Governor Nasir el-Rufai’s administration before being redeployed to head the Ministry of Environment. Last month, during his screening at the Senate, he fainted but was later screened and confirmed by the Red Chamber.