Former Finance Minister, Edun reflects on tenure, applauds economic progress

Former Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, has expressed contentment with his time in office, noting that he takes pride in the progress achieved by Nigeria’s economy during his tenure.

His remarks come a day after President Bola Tinubu announced his removal and named Taiwo Oyedele as the new finance minister.

In a statement released on Wednesday, Edun conveyed gratitude to the President for the opportunity to serve in several key capacities since the administration took office in May 2023. These roles included leading the Presidential Transition Committee, serving as Special Adviser on Monetary Policy, and eventually overseeing the nation’s finances as minister.

Describing his service as a privilege, Edun noted that he assumed office at a critical juncture in Nigeria’s economic history. He acknowledged that the administration inherited deep-rooted economic challenges but emphasized that decisive reforms implemented under his watch have begun to yield measurable outcomes.

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According to him, Nigeria experienced notable improvements in key economic indicators during his tenure. He pointed to an increase in economic growth from approximately 2 percent to over 4 percent, alongside a significant reduction in inflation from about 35 percent to 15 percent.

He attributed these gains to policies focused on stabilizing the macroeconomic environment, restoring fiscal discipline, and enhancing investor confidence.

Edun stressed that the progress achieved was not the result of individual effort but a collective undertaking involving members of the Federal Executive Council, state governors, and a broad range of stakeholders across both the public and private sectors.

He commended the dedication of professionals whose contributions, he said, continue to support Nigeria’s economic transformation.

While acknowledging that the country still faces economic hurdles, Edun maintained that reform is an ongoing process that requires consistency and collaboration. He expressed confidence in Nigeria’s economic direction and reiterated his belief in the long-term benefits of the reforms initiated during his tenure.

The former minister also extended his best wishes to his successor, Taiwo Oyedele, expressing hope for continuity in the reform agenda. He concluded by reaffirming his commitment to national development and readiness to serve the country in any capacity when called upon.