A coalition of thirty groups under The Middle Belt Pan-Nigerian Forum, advocating for good governance, has urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to reinstate Dr. Betta Edu as the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation. The spokesperson, Dr. Danladi Ceceko Dangana, emphasized that Dr. Edu’s suspension over fund transfer issues should not overshadow her significant achievements in addressing poverty and humanitarian crises in Nigeria.
Dr. Dangana highlighted Dr. Betta Edu’s accomplishments during her tenure, which include:
1. Securing a substantial commitment of 270 million USD from UNICEF, bolstering Nigeria’s capacity to integrate humanitarian response and emergencies, aligning with the overarching goal of eradicating poverty.
2. Actively cultivating support from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and other global partners, emphasizing collaboration to comprehensively address humanitarian crises and expedite poverty alleviation, in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
3. Proactively seeking military assistance to prevent humanitarian crises and expanding the social register to cover vulnerable groups such as families, widows, and impoverished ex-military personnel.
4. Personally overseeing the distribution of relief items to rescued families, including the Chibok girls, at the Bulumkutu Rehabilitation Camp, showcasing a hands-on approach to addressing immediate needs and providing hope to those affected.
5. Flagging off the distribution of relief non-food materials to over 900 households in Shwari IDP camps in Maiduguri, demonstrating a commitment to supporting displaced communities.
6. Laying the foundation stone for the construction of 40 units of modern toilets for Alheri Leprosy Colony in Yangoji Kwali Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, ensuring improved living conditions for marginalized communities.
7. Advocating for collaboration with the Ministry of Interior to address internal security, human trafficking, and migration, demonstrating a holistic approach to tackling the root causes of humanitarian crises and poverty.
8. Playing a pivotal role in establishing transit schools for 11,000 out-of-school displaced children in Niger State, providing not only education but also palliatives and skill training.
9. Actively engaging with international organizations such as the World Economic Forum, UNFPA, and participating in events during the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) 78, amplifying Nigeria’s commitment to global agendas, sustainable development, and refugee employment.
10. Announcing a comprehensive restructuring of the National Safety Net Program (NSIP), emphasizing transparency and accountability and inspiring effective, private sector-inspired programs that prioritize teamwork.
11. Securing promises of support from the UK government, Canadian government, and other global partners, fortifying Nigeria’s efforts in humanitarian response and poverty alleviation on the international stage.
12. Verifying the National Social Register in Lagos, ensuring data accuracy through collaboration with states, Local Government Areas (LGAs), and community leaders for robust data integrity.
13. Providing immediate humanitarian response and relief packages to flood-affected communities in Lagos and Ogun, while outlining comprehensive plans for sustainable solutions to mitigate the impact of flooding.
14. Conducting free medical outreaches and distributing food items to riverine communities, demonstrating a commitment to improving the health and well-being of vulnerable populations.
The Middle Belt Forum called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to reinstate Betta Edu based on the positive impact of her initiatives on beneficiaries in the North-Central region. They emphasized the need for inclusive governance and recognition of exceptional talent and leadership for the well-being of all Nigerians.
