The Nigerian Senate has confirmed Dr. Kingsley Ude, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) from Enugu State, as a Minister of the Federal Republic following a screening session held on the Senate floor on Thursday.
Born in 1978, Dr. Ude previously served as the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice in Enugu State, where he earned recognition for his legal expertise and reform-driven approach. During his screening, lawmakers posed a series of questions on national and international affairs, testing his grasp of governance and diplomacy.
Senator Abdul Ningi asked Ude for his views on the ongoing “Trump threat,” requesting his opinion on possible diplomatic solutions. The question briefly stirred debate in the chamber, with some senators arguing that Ude had already demonstrated sufficient competence and should be allowed to conclude his session.
Responding, Ude commended President Bola Tinubu’s diplomatic handling of the issue, noting that it was “more a matter of diplomacy than law.” His calm and thoughtful response drew applause from several lawmakers.
Senator Adamu Aliero also questioned Ude about the possible separation of the offices of the Attorney General of the Federation and the Minister of Justice—a recurring topic in Nigeria’s governance discourse. In his reply, Ude remarked, “Whether separated or fused, the successful operation of that office depends on the individual, on whether he allows himself to be politically influenced or not.”
Seemingly satisfied with his answers, the Senate President directed Ude to “take a bow and leave,” after which the chamber unanimously confirmed his appointment as minister.
His confirmation fills the vacancy left by Uche Nnaji, the former Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, who resigned from President Tinubu’s cabinet weeks earlier following a certificate scandal.
What You Should Know
Dr. Kingsley Ude, a distinguished legal practitioner and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, brings over two decades of legal experience to his new ministerial role.
He is widely respected for his integrity and legal acumen, having served as Enugu State’s Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice. His confirmation marks a continuation of President Bola Tinubu’s cabinet reshuffle following recent resignations.
Lawmakers and observers alike believe Ude’s professional background and balanced approach to sensitive issues position him to play a key role in strengthening the administration’s commitment to justice, governance reforms, and institutional accountability.
