In a move that signals renewed hope for the nation’s vulnerable populations, the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Leader for Persons With Disabilities (PWDs), Aare Hon. Tolu Bankole, has expressed deep appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his dedication to nation-building. Bankole also extended heartfelt congratulations to Dr. Nentawe Yilwatda on his appointment as the new Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, hailing it as a step in the right direction toward tackling poverty and improving humanitarian services across the country.
In a press statement released on October 24, 2024, Bankole emphasized that the President’s choice reflects a strong commitment to addressing the needs of society’s most vulnerable groups, including persons with disabilities (PWDs). “This appointment demonstrates President Tinubu’s resolve to build an inclusive Nigeria where no one is left behind. We are confident that Dr. Yilwatda will bring fresh ideas, vision, and empathy to this critical role,” Bankole stated.
Expectations for Impactful Leadership
Bankole stressed the urgency of delivering innovative strategies to fight poverty and improve humanitarian services. He expressed hope that Dr. Yilwatda’s leadership would usher in impactful policies that benefit all Nigerians, especially PWDs, who face unique socio-economic challenges.
“We look forward to Dr. Yilwatda’s proactive strategies to tackle poverty and advance humanitarian efforts. His appointment brings high expectations, and the time for meaningful change is now,” the statement read. Bankole urged the new minister to ensure that the aspirations of persons with disabilities are integrated into every initiative launched under his tenure. “With visionary leadership and genuine compassion, we believe Dr. Yilwatda can create an environment where PWDs are empowered to participate fully in society,” Bankole added.
Call for Inclusion Across All Ministries
Bankole extended his congratulations to other newly appointed ministers and encouraged them to embrace inclusivity in their various portfolios. “It is essential that every minister prioritizes the voices of all citizens, especially PWDs, when crafting policies and implementing programs,” he noted.
Among the new appointees celebrated were:
- Muhammadu Maigari Dingyadi – Minister of Labour and Employment
- Bianca Odinaka Odumegu-Ojukwu – Minister of State for Foreign Affairs
- Dr. Jumoke Oduwole – Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment
- Idi Mukhtar Maiha – Minister of Livestock Development
- Rt. Hon. Yusuf Abdullahi Ata – Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development
- Dr. Suwaiba Said Ahmad – Minister of State for Education
Bankole urged the ministers to integrate PWDs in policy-making processes, emphasizing that inclusive governance is essential for national development. He underscored the importance of making deliberate efforts to ensure accessibility, ease of participation, and representation for persons with disabilities across all sectors.
Renewed Hope for PWDs in Nigeria
Bankole expressed optimism that under Dr. Yilwatda’s leadership, PWDs would experience improved access to essential services and opportunities. “The ministry has a crucial role to play in enhancing the lives of the most vulnerable members of our society. We are hopeful that through Dr. Yilwatda’s stewardship, persons with disabilities will feel empowered and better equipped to contribute meaningfully to the nation’s growth.”
He also called on all stakeholders to work together to build an inclusive Nigeria where no citizen is marginalized. “Together, let us strive for a country where every individual—regardless of ability—has the opportunity to thrive,” Bankole concluded.
A Commitment to Inclusive Governance
Bankole’s statement serves as a clarion call for continued efforts toward inclusive governance at all levels of government. With the new ministers assuming office, hopes are high that Nigeria will witness bold reforms that promote equal opportunities and address the needs of the most vulnerable populations.
As the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Dr. Nentawe Yilwatda is expected to play a pivotal role in reshaping the humanitarian landscape and reducing poverty nationwide. The eyes of the nation—and particularly those of the disability community—are now fixed on his performance, with the hope that his tenure will bring meaningful change and renewed optimism for a more inclusive future.
