The Senate has confirmed three ministerial nominees: Jamila Ibrahim from Kwara State, Balarabe Lawal Kaduna State, and Ayodele Olawande from Ondo State.

President Bola Tinubu had written to the Senate yesterday, seeking its confirmation of the nominees. The confirmation brings the total number of ministers to 48.

Senate President Godwill Akpabio later gave the nominations a voice vote, and all the senators voted in favour of the nominees’ confirmation.

Their confirmation was despite the drama that ensued during the screening of Lawal, who slumped during questioning, causing the lawmakers to rush to his aid.

The nominee, who had read his profile plans for the Ministry of the Environment, collapsed when Kaduna South Senator Sunday Katung spoke about Balarabe’s administrative experience in Kaduna.

Senator Katung had not finished his remarks when the nominee collapsed, prompting Senate President Godswill Akpabio to request water.                                                                                           

Akpabio, after that, ordered journalists and cameras out of the chamber while the live streaming of the screening was also halted.

Lawal, who was later revived, spoke with journalists before he was taken away in an ambulance.