Group Urges Tejuosho to Succeed Edu as Minister of Humanitarian Affairs

 

The Concerned Civil Society Organisation of Nigeria has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to appoint Dr. Halimat Adenike Tejuosho as the new Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, replacing Dr. Betta Edu, who was recently suspended. The group's demand comes ahead of a potential cabinet reshuffle.

Speaking to the press in Abuja, Comrade Aminu Abbas, the Convener of the Coalition of Concerned Civil Society Organizations of Nigeria, highlighted that while Tejuosho currently holds no political office, her extensive philanthropic work makes her the ideal candidate to lead the ministry.

Abbas noted the group's concern over the ongoing vacancy in the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs following Edu’s removal due to allegations of corruption and fraud. He emphasized the vital role the ministry plays in supporting vulnerable Nigerians, pointing out the negative impact of the vacancy on those in need.

He said, "Our gathering here today is to urge the President to appoint Dr. Halima Adenike Tejuosho as a worthy replacement due to her proven track record in humanitarian efforts and poverty alleviation."

Representing over 120 civil society organizations and 17 million members nationwide, the group stressed that their recommendation is based on merit and public demand. Although nonpartisan, they believe Tejuosho's longstanding commitment to philanthropy, including her personal charitable efforts, positions her as the most capable candidate to fill the role.

Abbas cited Tejuosho's philanthropic organization, the Queen Adenike Tejuosho Foundation (QATFoundation), which has provided aid to disadvantaged groups such as People Living with Disabilities (PLWDs), senior citizens, and victims of natural disasters. Her efforts have also included supporting over 10 million children with educational materials and delivering relief packages during festive seasons to underprivileged households.

The coalition stressed the urgency of appointing Tejuosho, highlighting her recent intervention in flood relief efforts in Maiduguri, Borno State, where she donated millions of naira worth of materials and personally visited the affected areas. Abbas argued that such dedication to humanitarian work must be recognized with a formal role in the government.

The group also urged President Tinubu to prioritize competence and merit over politics or regional considerations when selecting a replacement for the sacked minister, expressing confidence that Tejuosho’s experience and compassion make her the best candidate to deliver tangible results for Nigerians.

"We are certain that appointing Dr. Tejuosho will ensure effective leadership in the ministry and allow her to continue her remarkable work in improving the lives of the less fortunate in Nigeria," Abbas concluded.