Hours before her screening by Senators, Dr Maryam Shetty was on Friday removed as a ministerial nominee.
The nominee from Kano State was replaced with Mairiga Mahmoud.
The letter replacing her was read by the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu also sent for screening by the Senate, the immediate past Minister of Labour and Productivity, Festus Keyamo (SAN).
He hails from Delta State.
With Keyamo in, the number of ministerial nominees is now 48
Tinubu in the letter addressed to Akpabio, and read at plenary on Friday, said:
“In compliance to the provision of section 147 sub section 2 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 as amended.
“And sequel to my earlier correspondence dated August 2, 2023.
“I resolved to withdraw the nomination of Dr. Maryam Shetty.
“Furthermore, I am pleased to nominate Dr Mariga Mahmud and Mr Festus Keyamo for consideration, and if been fit, confirm by the Senate as ministers.
“While hoping the above request will receive the kind consideration and approval of the senate, please accept Distinguished Senate President and distinguished Senators the assurances of my highest regard”.