By Ibironke Ariyo
The Committee of Youth on Mobilisation and Sensitisation (CYMS) has passed a vote of confidence in the Minister of Women Affairs, Hajia Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, and the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Dr. Maryam Ismaila Kensinro.
The Director General of CYMS, Chief Obinna Nwaka, announced this on Tuesday in Abuja during a media briefing.
Nwaka said the decision followed the protest held on Sept. 10 by staff of the ministry over welfare and working conditions.
He noted that while protests were part of democratic expressions, issues within institutions should be addressed through dialogue, mutual respect and patience.
He described the ministry as a vital engine in advancing the rights, empowerment and welfare of women, children and vulnerable groups in Nigeria.
Nwaka said the vote of confidence was anchored on the track record of the minister and permanent secretary, stressing that both leaders had shown service, dedication and ongoing reforms.
He commended the minister for her exceptional leadership in redefining policies and programmes for women’s empowerment, tackling gender-based violence, and upholding Nigeria’s commitments to international conventions on women and children.
The CYMS DG also praised Kensinro for demonstrating diligence, professionalism and concern for the welfare of staff, despite challenges posed by reforms and limited resources.
“Together, both leaders have brought a renewed sense of purpose to the ministry and are charting a course that aligns with the vision of President Bola Tinubu’s administration under the Renewed Hope Agenda,” he said.
Nwaka, however, acknowledged the concerns raised by staff during the protest, describing them as genuine and valid.
He urged workers to embrace peace, dialogue and trust in the leadership of the minister and the permanent secretary.
“Protests may amplify voices, but dialogue builds lasting solutions. It is through unity and cooperation between management and staff that progress can be accelerated,”he added.
The CYMS boss appealed to workers to avoid actions that may distract from the ministry’s core mandate or tarnish its image, especially at a time when Nigeria needs strong institutions to deliver on social development goals.
“CYMS stands firmly with the leadership of the ministry and is confident that welfare issues would be addressed in due time.
“We urge staff to take pride in being part of a ministry that represents the voice of millions of women and children across the country.
“By working together in peace and harmony, this ministry can continue to play its noble role in shaping a just, inclusive and prosperous Nigeria,” he said.
Nwaka reaffirmed the group’s support for the minister and permanent secretary, calling on stakeholders, staff, civil society, youth groups and partners to back their leadership.
“Together, let us continue to build a Ministry of Women Affairs that not only meets the welfare of its workers but also stands as a beacon of empowerment and hope for women, children and vulnerable groups across Nigeria,” he maintained.
Nwaka prayed for God’s blessings on Nigeria and restated CYMS’ national commitment to strengthening government-people relations through engagement, enlightenment and constructive dialogue.
