Abuja: 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, Dr. Maryam Kensinro. The Director General of CYMS, Chief Obinna Nwaka, announced this development during a media briefing held in Abuja.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the decision followed a protest held on September 10 by staff of the ministry concerning welfare and working conditions. Nwaka emphasized that while protests are a form of democratic expression, issues within institutions are best addressed through dialogue, mutual respect, and patience. He highlighted the ministry’s critical role in advancing the rights, empowerment, and welfare of women, children, and vulnerable groups in Nigeria.
Nwaka stated that the vote of confidence is based on the proven track record of the minister and permanent secretary, noting that both leaders have shown great service and dedication to their duties. He commended the minister for her leadership in redefining policies and programmes for women’s empowerment, addressing gender-based violence, and upholding Nigeria’s commitments to international conventions concerning women and children.
The CYMS Director General also praised Dr. Kensinro for her diligence, professionalism, and concern for staff welfare despite challenges posed by reforms and limited resources. He remarked that both leaders have infused a renewed sense of purpose into the ministry, aligning it with President Bola Tinubu’s administration’s vision under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
Nwaka acknowledged the concerns raised by staff during the protest as genuine and valid, urging workers to embrace peace and dialogue while trusting in the leadership of the minister and permanent secretary. He emphasized that while protests amplify voices, dialogue is essential for building lasting solutions, and unity between management and staff is crucial for progress.
He appealed to workers to avoid actions that could detract from the ministry’s core mandate or damage its image. Nwaka affirmed CYMS’ support for the ministry’s leadership and expressed confidence that welfare issues would be addressed in due course. He encouraged staff to take pride in their role within a ministry that represents millions of women and children nationwide.
In conclusion, Nwaka prayed for blessings on Nigeria and reiterated CYMS’ commitment to strengthening government-people relations through engagement, enlightenment, and constructive dialogue.