ABUJA – The Coalition of Lawyers for Truth and Justice (CLTJ), has commended President Bola Tinubu for appointing Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda as Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation.
In a statement on Tuesday, signed by Barrister Moses Okino, the group said Yilwatda’s impressive credentials, including a PhD in Digital Systems Engineering, make him an outstanding fit for the role.
The group described Yilwatda’s nomination as strategic to uplift Nigeria’s most vulnerable citizens, stressing that it is a significant step towards addressing Nigeria’s humanitarian challenges.
Okino added that Yilwatda’s passion for humanitarian work is evident in his previous projects, such as Nigeria’s first Integrated Financial Management Information System (IFMIS) and the World Bank-funded STEP-B project.
According to Okino, his penchant for uplifting marginalized communities, particularly Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), is evident in his previous projects, including setting up schools for IDP children and empowering IDP women through skill acquisition programs.
“We commend President Tinubu for this thoughtful appointment and pledge our support for Prof. Yilwatda as he embarks on this critical mission.
“Unlike his predecessors, Betta Edu and Sadiya Farouq, who faced numerous controversies during their tenures, Yilwatda’s appointment brings a sense of hope and renewal,” he said.
“Yilwatda’s track record of transparency and accountability, demonstrated during his time as Resident Electoral Commissioner at the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), inspires confidence in his ability to lead the ministry with integrity.
“As Nigeria faces numerous humanitarian challenges, including food insecurity, disease outbreaks, and displacement, Yilwatda’s expertise and commitment to humanitarian work are crucial in addressing these pressing issues.
“Prof. Yilwatda’s achievements are a shining example of dedication to public service. His commitment to humanitarian work, support for Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), development of voting frameworks for People Living with Disabilities (PWD), and engagement with the Nigerian Diaspora demonstrate his unwavering resolve to uplift the vulnerable.
“As Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Prof. Yilwatda will play a pivotal role in addressing the challenges facing Nigeria’s most vulnerable citizens.
“The CLTJ believes that Prof. Yilwatda’s appointment will bring significant positive change to Nigeria’s humanitarian landscape. His expertise in digital systems engineering and electronic governance will undoubtedly enhance the Ministry’s impact.
“We urge him to continue his exemplary work, leveraging his expertise to drive meaningful change. The CLTJ are confident that Prof. Yilwatda’s expertise, passion, and leadership will usher in a new era of hope and progress for Nigeria’s most vulnerable citizens,” the group stated.