By Luminous Jannamike

ABUJA – A coalition of civil society organizations (CSOs) has rejected President Bola Tinubu’s nomination of Nentawe Yilwatda as Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, citing the need for a female leader to effectively address Nigeria’s pressing humanitarian challenges.

In a statement signed by Comrade Mohammed Abdulrazak Ibrahim, the coalition expressed strong objections to Yilwatda’s nomination, arguing that appointing a woman to the position would bring essential perspectives and experiences vital for the ministry’s success.

They also highlighted the nominee’s lack of a track record in humanitarian endeavors.

The CSOs further criticized Tinubu’s appointments, expressing shock over Bianca Odinaka Odumegu-Ojukwu’s nomination as Minister of State for Foreign Affairs.

They questioned her contribution to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and alleged she was a card-carrying member of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA).

Furthermore, the coalition faulted Tinubu’s nomination of the former Minister of Police Affairs as Minister of Women Affairs, citing her poor performance in previous roles, including her tenure in the refugee commission.

The group emphasized that women have long been at the forefront of humanitarian efforts, demonstrating remarkable resilience and empathy in times of crisis.

They stressed that women’s leadership is crucial for driving meaningful change in Nigeria’s humanitarian landscape.

The coalition warned that it would organize protests across the country if Tinubu submits Yilwatda’s nomination to the Senate for confirmation.

They vowed to mobilize public support to highlight the importance of female leadership in humanitarian affairs.

The statement added, “We are calling on President Tinubu to reconsider the nomination and nominate someone with a track record of Humanitarian successes.

“The Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs should be headed by a woman who understands the unique challenges faced by vulnerable populations in our society, especially at a time that the president’s policy is biting hard on Nigerians. As a coalition, we believe that a woman in this position would bring essential perspectives and experiences that are vital for the ministry’s success.

“Women are not only caregivers but also powerful advocates for change. Their insights can drive more effective policies and programs that truly meet the needs of those they serve.

“We will not rest until the right choice is made. This is about ensuring that women’s voices are not only heard but prioritized in decision-making.”