ANKPA, KOGI STATE — A passionate call has been made to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu by Hon. Emmanuel Aduku, the physically challenged House of Assembly candidate representing Ankpa 1 Constituency in Kogi State, urging the President to appoint Hon. Tolu Bankole as the next Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation.
This appeal comes in the wake of the elevation of the former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs to the esteemed position of National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC). With the ministerial seat now vacant, stakeholders across Nigeria’s disability community are advocating for a leader who not only understands the challenges of the vulnerable but has also walked in their shoes.
Hon. Emmanuel Aduku described Hon. Tolu Bankole as a “tested and trusted voice” for the disability community and a man of profound impact whose appointment would not only consolidate gains already made in humanitarian service but would also usher in a new era of inclusive leadership.
“Hon. Tolu Bankole is not just a politician — he is a humanitarian, a builder of hope, and a tireless advocate for the rights and welfare of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs),” Hon. Aduku stated.
According to Hon. Aduku, since his emergence as a National Leader for Persons with Disabilities at the APC’s National Working Committee, Tolu Bankole has become a beacon of light and transformation for thousands of Nigerians with disabilities. His tenure has seen the empowerment of numerous individuals through job opportunities, entrepreneurial support, skills training, and policy advocacy.
“Within a short time, he has touched lives — not just within the disability community, but across various vulnerable groups. He has proven that leadership is not about occupying positions but about delivering real and measurable impact. Imagine what he could do as a minister!” Hon. Aduku passionately declared.
The humanitarian ministry plays a crucial role in driving social safety programs, poverty reduction schemes, and support services for the poor, displaced, and persons with special needs. Hon. Aduku believes that with Tolu Bankole at the helm, the ministry would witness a fresh momentum of compassion-driven and strategic leadership, tailored to the realities of Nigeria’s most vulnerable populations.
Hon. Emmanuel Aduku thanked President Tinubu for his commitment to inclusive governance and expressed deep confidence in his leadership style that prioritizes merit and national interest. He prayed for divine wisdom and strength for the President in his continuing efforts to steer the nation to greater heights.
“As a President who champions the Renewed Hope Agenda, I believe His Excellency will consider Hon. Tolu Bankole — a man who embodies that hope for the disability community and the downtrodden,” Hon. Aduku added.
The call by Hon. Emmanuel Aduku has since been echoed by various grassroots disability organizations, youth-led groups, and community leaders across the North Central region, who all see in Tolu Bankole a rare blend of experience, empathy, and executive capacity.
