Udeh, nominated by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to replace
Uche Nnaji, the former Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology,
appeared before the Senate for confirmation. Nnaji, who represented Enugu State
in the Federal Executive Council, resigned last month following controversy
over his academic qualifications, leaving the state without representation in
the cabinet.

As the session began, Akpabio advised the nominee to steer
clear of politically sensitive questions.

“The only question I will urge you to ignore is commenting
on Trump,” the Senate President told Udeh before the lawmakers began their
questioning.

After a brief interaction, Akpabio moved for Udeh’s
confirmation, saying with a smile: “Is it the will of the Senate that the
nominee, being versatile and not responding to questions on Trump, should take
a bow?”

The motion was met with approval from the chamber as Akpabio
declared, “The ‘Ayes’ have it,” confirming Udeh’s nomination.

Trump had recently accused Nigerian authorities of ignoring
what he called the “systematic persecution” and “genocide” of Christians, a
statement that sparked heated debate among lawmakers earlier in the week.

During Tuesday’s plenary, Akpabio tactfully avoided making
any direct comment on the matter, saying, “Who am I to reply Trump?” a remark
that drew laughter from senators and underscored his diplomatic handling of the
issue.