By Sylvia Kodilichukwu, Enugu
Senate today confirmed Dr. Kingsley Udeh, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) from Enugu State, as a Minister.
He now occupies the state’s slot made vacant by the recent resignation of Geoffrey Nnaji, then Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, who bowed out amid a nationwide storm over his suspicious academic credential.
Ude’s confirmation followed a screening session on the Senate floor today,relayed on Channels TV.
Born in 1978, Udeh previously served as Enugu State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice.
During the screening, senators questioned him on national and diplomatic issues, including Nigeria’s response to US President Donald Trump’s recent threats.
Responding, Udeh said President Bola Tinubu was managing the situation through diplomatic channels, describing it as “a matter of diplomacy rather than law.”
He also addressed the debate on separating the offices of the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, saying the success of either arrangement depends on the integrity and independence of the office holder.
Satisfied with his responses, Senate asked him to take a bow and it subsequently confirmed his appointment.
Across Enugu State, news of Udeh’s confirmation was received with widespread joy and celebration, as residents, youth groups, and professional bodies described the development as a testament to the excellence and vision of State Governor Peter Mbah’s leadership.
They hailed Udeh as a youth of distinction—an accomplished scholar and legal luminary whose brilliance and character embody the new face of Enugu’s rising generation.
The people further extolled the governor for his pivotal role in facilitating Udeh’s nomination and eventual appointment by President Tinubu.
They also lauded him for consistently identifying and promoting competent professionals to positions of responsibility, both within and beyond the state.
According to them, Mbah’s deliberate recruitment of the best brains into his administration has made Enugu stand out as one of the most reform-driven and innovative states in the federation.
*PHOTO CAPTION: President Tinubu shakes Udeh’s hands at the latter’s swearing-in.
