Why I resigned as labour minister — Onyejeocha

The Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, has announced her resignation from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s cabinet, describing the move as the beginning of a new chapter in her political journey.

Onyejeocha made the announcement in a statement shared on her official X handle, where she expressed gratitude to the President for the opportunity to serve in his administration.

“It is with a heart full of gratitude that I announce my resignation as Honourable Minister of State for Labour and Employment,” she said.

“This decision comes with profound gratitude to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for the opportunity to serve Nigeria in his administration.”

She added that her resignation should not be seen as the end of her public service career, stressing that she remains committed to national development.

“This is not an end but a new beginning. I remain committed to service, to progress, and to building the Nigeria we all deserve,” she stated.

Although she did not directly state the office she intends to seek, her resignation follows the President’s directive requiring political appointees planning to contest in the 2027 elections to step down from their positions.

The former minister is reportedly preparing to return to the House of Representatives to contest for the Isuikwuato/Umunneochi Federal Constituency seat in Abia State, which she represented for 16 years before joining the Federal Executive Council.

During her time in office, Onyejeocha was involved in labour sector reforms focused on workers’ welfare, workplace safety, and employment generation.

Her resignation is expected to form part of the growing political realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections.