Tinubu's Education Minister Firmly Dismisses Resignation Speculation
Nigeria's Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, has categorically denied widespread social media rumours suggesting his imminent resignation from President Bola Tinubu's cabinet. The minister issued a cryptic yet clear statement on Wednesday, March 4, 2026, directly addressing claims that he plans to step down to pursue a governorship ambition in Lagos State ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Social Media Post Sparks Clarification
Alausa made his position known while reacting to a video circulating online that showed him attending the Federal Executive Council meeting in Abuja. In a tweet from his official account, he stated, "We’re still hard at work here at the FME, don’t believe the rumours." This comment was aimed at dispelling reports that had gained traction, alleging his departure to focus on political aspirations in Lagos.
The rumours had suggested that Alausa intended to resign to prepare for a gubernatorial campaign, a move that would align with the ongoing political realignments among Nigerian politicians as the next election cycle approaches. However, the minister's response indicates his continued dedication to his current role, emphasizing stability within the education sector.
Public Reactions and Support for the Minister
Following Alausa's denial, numerous Nigerians took to social media to express their support and commend his performance as Education Minister. Comments highlighted the importance of his leadership in driving educational reforms and addressing systemic issues.
- Jerry Research praised Alausa, saying, "God bless you, sir. You have proved that no problem is without a solution, just resilience and a clear conscience. Please, as you have settled ASUU, remember it's not only lecturers that keep the university system running. Look into others as well, e.g. NAAT and the rest."
- Alayo Ade added, "Thank you very much, Hon. Minister, for the clarity. Your presence as Education Minister is of greater benefit in the Nigerian Education System now than running for Lagos state Governor, which is not certain at the moment because you're more useful to over 200 million Nigerians than Lagos."
- Sofumade. MPhil urged, "Dr. Tunji, please don't listen to the rumours. Our education system needs someone like you to rebrand it, upgrade our school curriculum to suit today's growth, and implement new infrastructure in our secondary schools and universities."
Ongoing Challenges and Calls for Action
Despite the support, some users raised concerns about unresolved issues within the education sector. For instance, Mai Kaji dan Zaria commented, "Rumours kuma. As you don increase ASUU members by 40%. We, 2024 FSB NA and BEA, are yet to get our money, 2025 has passed too, and you even said it would increase by 50%. Just pay this money biko, leave the original one pay am for we scholars biko make we see front." Similarly, Amb. Abubakar Shuwa inquired about scholarship delays, highlighting ongoing administrative challenges.
Broader Political Context and Legislative Input
This development occurs amid broader political manoeuvring, with politicians frequently shifting allegiances in pursuit of electoral goals. In a related context, Hon. Philip Agbese, the deputy spokesperson of the House of Representatives, recently cautioned the Nigeria Labour Congress against joining strikes by the Academic Staff Union of Universities. Agbese warned that such actions could undermine the education reforms spearheaded by Minister Alausa, urging stakeholders to support stability and dialogue to avoid further disruptions in the academic calendar.
The National Assembly has reaffirmed its commitment to engaging with unions to ensure continuous progress in the sector, emphasizing the need for collaborative efforts to enhance Nigeria's educational framework.
