A group, The Concerned Northern Forum, has expressed concern over the continuous absence of a substantive Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation since the suspension of the previous holder of the position, Dr Betta Edu, by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The President suspended Edu on January 8 and directed the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to conduct a thorough investigation into the alleged payment of N585.189 million in grants meant for vulnerable groups in Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Ogun, and Lagos states into a private account.
In a press statement, signed by its chairman, Aliu Sanni Mohammed, made available to Tribune Online in Abuja today, the Forum noted that the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation plays a vital role in not only coordinating relief efforts and addressing poverty but also implementing programs that support millions of Nigerians struggling to make ends meet.
It added that with the current economic challenges and rising levels of poverty, the absence of effective leadership in the ministry has dire implications for the welfare of many Nigerians.
In view of this, the CNF called for the urgent appointment of a competent and selfless leader as minister to head the ministry, especially in light of the current Federal Government’s unfavourable policies impacting the most vulnerable Nigerians.
“The Concerned Northern Forum (CNF) is deeply concerned about the continued vacancy in the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation following the suspension of Dr. Betta Edu due to ongoing investigations by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) regarding fraud allegations.
“The CNF emphasises the urgent need for a competent and selfless leader to fill this critical role, especially in light of the current administration’s unfavourable policies impacting the most vulnerable Nigerians.
“The humanitarian ministry plays a vital role in coordinating relief efforts, addressing poverty, and implementing programmes that support millions of citizens struggling to make ends meet.
“With the ongoing economic challenges and rising levels of poverty, the absence of effective leadership in this ministry has dire implications for the welfare of many Nigerians.
“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration is tasked with navigating complex social issues, and the prolonged vacancy only exacerbates the challenges faced by those in need.
“The CNF asserts that now, more than ever, Nigerians require a strong advocate within the government to address humanitarian crises, provide social safety nets, and implement policies that uplift marginalised communities,” Muhammad stated.
According to him, the implications of leaving the ministry vacant are far-reaching, declaring that vulnerable populations are suffering without the necessary support and resources.
“We call upon President Tinubu to expedite the appointment of a new minister who possesses the integrity, expertise, and commitment to serve the Nigerian populace effectively.
“The CNF believes that the appointment of a dedicated minister is crucial to restore public confidence and ensure that essential humanitarian programmes continue without disruption,” the CNF added.
It then urged the Federal Government to prioritise the appointment of a substantive Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation with a view to addressing Nigerians’ pressing needs.
“We urge the Federal Government to prioritise this appointment and reaffirm its commitment to addressing the pressing needs of its citizens, particularly those grappling with the effects of poverty and social injustice,” the Forum advised.
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