A disability rights group, the Joint Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD), has expressed strong disapproval over President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s delay in appointing a minister for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, a position vacant since the suspension of Betta Edu.
They expressed hope that Tinubu will consider their plea and recognize one Dr. Halimat Adenike Tejuosho’s potential to advance humanitarian efforts and poverty alleviation in Nigeria.
The association’s National President, Abdullahi Aliyu Usman, disclosed this in Abuja, during a press briefing. Citing Dr. Tejuosho’s commitment and support for persons with disabilities and marginalized communities.
Tinubu suspended the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Betta Edu, with immediate effect and asked the corruption watchdog to investigate financial transactions involving her ministry.
Edu, the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, is the first minister to be suspended less than six months after her appointment by President Bola Tinubu, who won last year’s disputed elections vowing to revive growth in Africa’s biggest economy and fight corruption.
Usman said: “As a community dedicated to advocating for the rights and well-being of persons with disabilities and the less privileged, we acknowledge the efforts and strides made by the administration in addressing various societal issues.
“In light of this milestone, the community of persons with disabilities respectfully urges President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to consider the appointment of Dr. Halimat Adenike Tejuosho as the Minister for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation.
“Dr. Tejuosho’s unwavering commitment and support to the community of persons with disabilities and the less privileged in Nigeria have been exemplary, making her an ideal candidate for this crucial role.”
The president said Dr. Halimat has consistently demonstrated her dedication to improving the lives of persons with disabilities and marginalized communities through her advocacy, initiatives, and programs.
Usman explained that her expertise, compassion, and extensive experience in humanitarian work uniquely position her to lead efforts aimed at alleviating poverty and addressing the needs of vulnerable populations across the country.
He added, “The community of persons with disabilities/widows in Nigeria emphasizes that this request is unprecedented, underscoring the critical importance of having a leader who understands and prioritizes the challenges faced by persons with disabilities and marginalized groups.
“Dr. Tejuosho’s appointment would not only be a significant step towards inclusivity and empowerment but also a testament to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to fostering positive change and social justice.
“As a community, we appeal to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to consider our plea and recognize the invaluable contributions that Dr. Halimat Adenike Tejuosho can make in advancing humanitarian efforts and poverty alleviation in Nigeria.
“We believe that her appointment would further strengthen the government’s commitment to ensuring equal opportunities and support for all members of society.
“We express our sincere hope that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will give due consideration to this request and take into account the aspirations of the community of persons with disabilities as he continues to steer the nation towards progress and prosperity.”
