The Presidency has dismissed claims that plans are underway to replace the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the Presidency explained that Edun is currently recuperating at his Abuja residence after falling ill, debunking rumours that he suffered a stroke or was flown abroad for treatment.
Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, confirmed that the minister is receiving medical care in Nigeria.
“Yes, he’s indisposed. Wale Edun is about 69 years old. He suddenly fell ill. As we speak, he’s in Nigeria, recuperating,” Onanuga said.
The clarification followed reports suggesting that President Tinubu was considering replacing the minister amid concerns about his health.
Earlier, the Presidency had announced that Edun would not attend this year’s World Bank and International Monetary Fund (IMF) Annual Meetings in Washington, D.C., with the Central Bank Governor, Olayemi Cardoso, leading Nigeria’s delegation instead.
The meetings, which bring together global finance ministers, central bankers, and economic experts, are scheduled to begin on Monday, October 14.
Appointed on August 28, 2023, Edun has been a key figure in President Tinubu’s economic reform agenda, driving efforts to stabilise the naira, curb inflation, and attract foreign investment.