In a move widely hailed by advocates for integrity in governance, President Bola Tinubu appointed Professor Nentawe Yilwatda as the new Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation.
The appointment follows Betta Edu’s departure from the position, marking a shift in the ministry’s leadership.
The Coalition of Lawyers for Truth and Justice (CLTJ) responded positively to Yilwatda’s appointment. CLTJ spokesperson Barrister Moses Okino highlighted Yilwatda’s extensive qualifications, including his PhD in Digital Systems Engineering, describing him as “an outstanding fit” for the role.
“Professor Yilwatda brings a fresh sense of hope and renewal to a ministry previously marred by controversy,” Okino stated, noting past issues under former ministers Betta Edu and Sadiya Farouq.
Yilwatda’s record of transparency, particularly during his tenure at the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), has built his reputation as a leader of integrity.
Beyond his academic and professional achievements, Yilwatda’s prior work on humanitarian initiatives has sparked optimism.
Okino pointed to Yilwatda’s involvement in Nigeria’s Integrated Financial Management Information System (IFMIS) and the World Bank-funded STEP-B project, which underscore his commitment to addressing food insecurity, disease, and displacement.
Okino urged Nigerians to support the new minister, voicing hope that Yilwatda would bring transformative change.
“His commitment to the welfare of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) and vulnerable communities is unmatched,” Okino remarked, projecting a “new era of hope and progress” under Yilwatda’s leadership.
