Forum of Civil Society Organizations working across various sectors in Plateau State, have extended their solidarity and heartfelt congratulations to Dr. Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda on his appointment as Minister of the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction.
This was contained in a statement signed Chairman of the forum, Rev. Christopher Damcher and Secretary, Dr. Mrs. Piwuna and made available to newsmen in Jos, the Plateau State capital on Tuesday.
The statement said though appointments may not typically warrant congratulations, the unique circumstances of Plateau State, which has witnessed the plight of many displaced persons without adequate attention at various levels of governance, necessitate this special recognition.
The forum believes that this appointment brings hope for the citizens, especially those affected displacement and its repercussions on their well-being and dignity,
The statement noted that Dr. Yilwatda has consistently demonstrated competence, compassion for the less privileged and commitment to the development of Plateau State and Nigeria at large through previous assignments.
“As an umbrella body comprising civil society organizations representing sectors like health, governance, democracy, human rights, youth, women, child protection, humanitarian services, peace and security, media for peace, and more, we express our gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for this strategic and thoughtful appointment. We are hopeful that this cabinet reshuffle will help deliver on government promises, addressing critical issues such as poverty, hunger, and rising crime rates, and will ultimately foster better days across the country.
“We are particularly pleased that Plateau State has been chosen for such a pivotal ministry, given the many challenges we face, especially in humanitarian efforts. Our colleagues in the field have often been limited in their work due to inadequate funding and lack of governmental support, despite the pressing needs of displaced citizens, particularly women and children, who continue to live in dehumanising conditions.
“While the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction has previously been marred allegations of corruption, we trust that Dr. Yilwatda ‘s track record of diligence and integrity will steer the ministry away from such challenges. We urge him to exercise wisdom in his leadership and avoid the pitfalls of corruption or potential blackmail that may arise.” Added the statement.
The forum also believes that Dr. Yilwatda has the capability to ensure that his legacy is not just one of personal achievements but of meaningful transformation for the people. We hope to witness true poverty reduction, not just in numbers but in the lived realities of Nigerians, and we look forward to hearing testimonies from those who have been positively impacted his work.