Tinubu Faces Backlash from APC Women over State-Based Male Nominations

APC women criticize President Tinubu for appointing two male nominees from the same state, calling for broader representation of women in government roles.

The Women and Youth Council of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has expressed disapproval over appointing two male leaders to head the Humanitarian Affairs Ministry.

On Tuesday, members of the concerned group assembled at the National Assembly in Abuja, holding placards with a variety of messages, including “Men Are Not Compassionate Enough to Run the Humanitarian Ministry.”

“We Reject Discrimination Against Women” and “The Humanitarian Ministry Should Not Be Used for Political Favoritism,” among other statements.

Under the leadership of convener Jennifer Raymond, the group contended that appointing males does not align with the principle of federal character. They urged President Bola Tinubu to reevaluate these appointments to promote inclusivity and fairness.

The women mentioned the recent appointments of Nentawe Yilwatda as the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, along with Chief Ayuba Gufwan as the Executive Secretary for the National Commission for People Living with Disabilities. Both appointees hail from Plateau State.

The group claims that nominating two male candidates from the same state breaches the constitutional principle of federal character, which is designed to guarantee fair representation across Nigeria’s diverse regions.

The women highlighted the necessity for the nomination process to mirror Nigeria’s diverse demographics. They underscored the significance of gender equality and geographic representation, especially in ministries focused on key humanitarian concerns and poverty reduction.

Choosing male candidates exclusively from the same state goes against the constitutional principle of federal character, which aims to guarantee fair representation across Nigeria’s various regions.

A major concern in this situation is gender representation. All the current nominees for leadership positions in the ministry are male, which raises important questions about inclusivity and their capability to address the unique needs of diverse communities.

Humanitarian efforts naturally encompass a wide range of groups, including women and children who frequently bear the brunt of crises. To guarantee effective and fair responses in humanitarian situations, it is essential to incorporate their perspectives, experiences, and needs into decision-making processes.

Studies have consistently demonstrated that organizations with gender-diverse leadership generally excel in crisis situations. Women frequently offer diverse perspectives and problem-solving approaches, resulting in more innovative and effective solutions.

Advocating for diverse representation, especially in terms of gender, within the leadership of the Humanitarian Ministry is not just a progressive goal; it is a practical approach to improving the Ministry’s ability to address Nigeria’s urgent humanitarian issues.

By mirroring the nation’s diversity, including gender diversity, leadership can guarantee that humanitarian responses are contextually relevant, culturally appropriate, and ultimately more effective.

As Nigeria addresses intricate humanitarian challenges, adopting diverse leadership will be essential for building resilience and enhancing the well-being of every citizen.

“We strongly encourage President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to promptly consider federal character in his appointments by choosing a competent woman with a proven record of humanitarian initiatives for an important role in the Humanitarian Ministry,” stated Jennifer Raymond.