News Editor
By Olu Balogun
Niger Delta Progressive Women Worldwide, has appealed to President Bola Tinubu to appoint a woman as the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, expressing disappointment with the recent appointment of a male to handle affairs of the ministry after confirmation by the Senate.
President Tinubu had last Wednesday announced the appointment of a Plateau State indigene, Dr. Nentawe Yiltawa as the Minister of State for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction.
But the women maintained in a statement issued in collaboration with other women groups from the Niger Delta region at the weekend in Abuja that “this decision not only disregards the critical need for gender representation in governance, but also threatens to alienate a significant segment of the electorate—particularly women and individuals living with disabilities.”
The 10 different groups that signed the statement are the Niger Delta Progressive Women Worldwide, Concerned Isoko Women in Abuja, Urhobo Progressive Women, Izon Female Students’ Forum, Ndokwa Women Worldwide, Ikwere Youth Assembly (Women Wing), Delta Igbo Progressives Front, Coalition of Nigeria Students (Women Wing) and the Nigeria Our Agenda, respectively.
The groups warned that President Tinubu risks losing the support of women and people living with disabilities, groups they claimed are crucial to his political base if the appointment of a male minister for the ministry is not reversed.
“As we approach the 2027 general elections, it is imperative for the president to recognize that alienating these constituencies will have far-reaching consequences. The 2023 election was a testament to the power of these groups, and their disenfranchisement could significantly hinder any ambitions for a second term,” they said.
The women went further: “Portfolios associated with humanitarian affairs and poverty reduction are not mere political appointments; they are vital roles that require sensitivity, understanding, and a commitment to uplifting the most vulnerable members of our society.
“Women, who constitute a substantial portion of those affected by poverty and humanitarian crises, possess unique insights and experiences that are essential for effective policymaking.
“Appointing a male minister, especially in a context where women’s voices are imperative, raises serious questions about the administration’s commitment to gender equity and its understanding of the multifaceted challenges we face as a nation.
“Moreover, if this appointment is not reversed, President Tinubu risks losing the support of women and people living with disabilities, groups that are crucial to his political base.”
The women emphasized that humanitarian affairs should not be a platform for political compensation; rather, it should be entrusted to a qualified woman with a proven track record of humanitarian initiative, who has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to addressing issues of poverty and humanitarian crises.
“Women, without doubt, should be at the forefront of these efforts because their leadership would not only enhance the effectiveness of our humanitarian policies but also restore public confidence in the government’s commitment to inclusivity,” they added.
The women also urged President Tinubu to reconsider his administration’s approach to appointments in critical sectors, saying “true progress can only be achieved through genuine representation and empowerment of all citizens, particularly those who have been historically marginalized.”
“A diverse leadership is essential for crafting policies that reflect the needs of the entire population and for fostering trust between the government and its people,” they counselled.
