Many critics, including the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), had criticised the President for assigning the portfolios to the ex-governor, arguing that it would overwhelm him, which would result to underperformance.

Speaking in an interview with a magazine, The Interview, Buhari said Fashola is a hard working man who has proven to be an excellent performer.

“The economic realities demanded that we merge ministries and we did," he said.

“Putting three critical ministries under one man was determined by the ability to perform.

“This is a man who had ruled a state excellently for eight years and as they say, the reward for hard work is more work”

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On whether those who voluntarily returned looted funds would be prosecuted, the President said he is waiting for the recommendation of the Attorney-General on that, saying he would not want to disgrace people.