An international non-governmental organisation and women‘s rights advocate, Woman Africa International, has called on the federal government to prioritise individuals with proven commitment to caring for vulnerable groups in the selection of the next minister of humanitarian affairs.
In a statement issued in Abuja yesterday, the group’s president, Rev. Ijeoma Emeribe, emphasised the importance of appointing a humanist with a genuine passion for the well-being of vulnerable communities, highlighting that many NGOs, including Woman Africa International, have sustained efforts to aid the less privileged without relying on government allocations.
Emeribe expressed concern over the alleged corruption in the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, stating that the appointment of individuals with little experience in the humanitarian relief industry makes the ministry susceptible to corruption and malpractices.
Addressing the increasing levels of illiteracy and poverty in Nigeria, she urged the government to consider candidates with a track record of positively impacting vulnerable groups.
She called for a thorough probe into the use of funds in the ministry over the last four years, emphasizing the need for accountability from the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari to the current administration.
Emeribe stressed the urgency of ensuring that allocated funds are transparently accounted for, urging the government to channel resources effectively to reduce the growing numbers of vulnerable persons.
She warned against the consequences of prolonged deprivation for a large portion of the population.
Highlighting Woman Africa International‘s achievements in empowering women and vulnerable groups through entrepreneurship and educational support, she lamented the lack of government support while corruption thrived within the ministry responsible for intervention.
She called on Nigerian leaders to take responsibility for their actions and work towards fostering positive change in the lives of vulnerable individuals across the country.
