According to Channels Television, President Bola Tinubu has appointed Bianca Odinaka Ojukwu, widow of former Biafran president Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu, as Minister of State for Foreign Affairs. The appointment has sparked a range of reactions, with many hailing it as a significant move in fostering national unity, while others have expressed mixed emotions.
Bianca Ojukwu, an Anambra-born politician, diplomat, lawyer, and businesswoman, brings a wealth of experience to the role. She is a former beauty pageant titleholder, having won Most Beautiful Girl in Nigeria, Miss Africa, and Miss Intercontinental. Beyond her pageant career, she has served in key diplomatic roles, including as Nigeria’s Ambassador to Ghana and, later, to Spain. Ojukwu was also a presidential advisor, making her appointment to the Tafawa Balewa House well-received by some as a fitting choice.
One observer praised the move, stating, “For those who can read between the lines, the appointment of this woman among other new appointees is significant, indicative, strategic, and intentional.”
Another supporter described the decision as an “Appointment of Strategic National Unity.” According to this viewpoint, Ojukwu’s appointment symbolizes healing the deep wounds of the Nigerian Civil War, given her marriage to the late Biafran leader. “Her records as a two-time ambassador and beauty pageant holder justify her appointment to the Tafawa Balewa House,” the supporter added.
Bianca Ojukwu’s diplomatic background makes her well-positioned to serve in her new role as Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, with analysts noting her past success as a diplomat and her contribution to Nigeria’s foreign policy. However, there are those who remain skeptical, arguing that the appointment is politically motivated and intended to court favor with the Southeastern region, where tensions have simmered over the years.
The announcement came as part of President Tinubu’s long-anticipated cabinet reshuffle, which saw the removal of five ministers and the nomination of seven new ones. The new ministers include:
Nentawe Yilwatda – Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction
Muhammadu Maigari Dingyadi – Minister of Labour & Employment
Bianca Odinaka Ojukwu – Minister of State, Foreign Affairs
Jumoke Oduwole – Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment (Trade and Investment)
Idi Mukhtar Maiha – Minister of Livestock Development
Yusuf Abdullahi Ata – Minister of State, Housing and Urban Development
Suwaiba Said Ahmad – Minister of State, Education
The appointment of these ministers, especially Bianca Ojukwu, has ignited conversations about the political symbolism of the choices and the overall direction of Tinubu’s government
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