The Women and Youth Council of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has expressed strong disapproval regarding President Bola Tinubu’s appointment of two males from the same state to the Humanitarian Ministry.
Recall that President Tinubu recently sacked and appointed some persons into key offices in a bid to reshuffle his cabinet.
The individuals, however, await confirmation after screening by the National Assembly.
Among those nominated for appointments are Nentawe Yilwatda, designated Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, and Chief Ayuba Gufwan as Executive Secretary of the National Commission for People Living with Disabilities, both hailing from Plateau State.
However, on Tuesday, October 29, members of the Women and Youth Council of the ruling party convened at the National Assembly in Abuja, holding placards with messages such as “Men Are Not Compassionate Enough To Run the Humanitarian Ministry.
“We Say No To Women Discrimination,” and “Humanitarian Ministry is Not For Political Compensation.”
Under the leadership of its convener, Jennifer Raymond, the group contended that the selection of male leaders contradicts the principle of federal character.
They urged President Tinubu to reassess these appointments to promote inclusivity and fairness.
They further asserted that appointing two male individuals from the same state undermines the constitutional principle of federal character, which is designed to ensure fair representation across Nigeria’s various regions.
The group underscored the necessity for the nomination process to mirror Nigeria’s diverse demographic landscape, emphasizing the critical need for gender balance and geographic representation, especially in ministries that tackle vital humanitarian concerns and poverty alleviation.
“The selection of male candidates from the same state undermines the constitutional principle of federal character, which is intended to ensure equitable representation across Nigeria’s diverse regions.
“A particularly pressing concern within this context is gender representation. The current nominees for leadership positions in the ministry are male, raising significant questions about inclusivity and the ability to address the unique needs of all communities.
“Humanitarian affairs inherently involve diverse groups, including women and children, who are often disproportionately affected by crises. Their perspectives, experiences, and needs must be included in decision-making processes to ensure effective and equitable humanitarian responses.
“Research has consistently shown that organizations with gender-diverse leadership tend to perform better in crisis situations. Women often bring different viewpoints and approaches to problem-solving, leading to more innovative and effective solutions.
“The call for diverse representation, particularly regarding gender, in the Humanitarian Ministry’s leadership is not merely a progressive ideal; it is a pragmatic strategy for enhancing the Ministry’s effectiveness in tackling Nigeria’s pressing humanitarian challenges.
“By reflecting the country’s diversity, including gender diversity, the leadership can ensure that humanitarian responses are contextually relevant, culturally appropriate, and ultimately more impactful.
“As Nigeria continues to navigate complex humanitarian issues, embracing diversity within leadership will be crucial for fostering resilience and improving the well-being of all its citizens.
“Therefore, we urge President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to urgently reflect federal character in his appointments by selecting a competent woman with proven track record of humanitarian initiatives to occupy a key position in the Humanitarian Ministry,” said Jennifer Raymond on behalf of the group.
