Change humanitarian affairs ministry to social security agency, Ned Nwoko tells Tinubu

Ned Nwoko, senator representing Delta north, has asked President Bola Tinubu change the federal ministry of humanitarian affairs to the national social security agency.

In an open letter to the president on Monday, Nwoko said the ministry has “perpetuated a cycle of dependency and poverty”.

The humanitarian affairs ministry, established under the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari, has been riddled with corruption allegations.

Betta Edu, minister of humanitarian affairs, is currently on suspension over graft allegations.

The senator said social security should not be considered as an act of benevolence, but a fundamental human right.

”This ministry, while well-intentioned, has proven to be a temporary bandage on a deep and festering wound,” he said.

“This approach does not respect the inherent dignity of our people. It treats them as dependents rather than as citizens with rights.

“Social security should be recognised not as an act of benevolence, but as a fundamental right. It is time to rethink our strategy and implement a transformative change that will pave the way for a more equitable and sustainable future for all Nigerians.

“I therefore respectfully urge you to consider establishing a National Social Security Agency, directly under the Office of the President, to replace the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs.

”This agency would target and address the needs of the vulnerable population through a more efficient and sustainable system, one that truly empowers rather than pities, one that upholds the dignity and respect every Nigerian deserves.

”A system that ensures citizens feel truly secure, confident that no matter the circumstances, their basic needs for food and shelter will be met.

”A system that will provide the government with the necessary space to focus on other critical aspects of governance, free from unprovoked backlash due to perceived neglect or lack of support.”

The lawmaker said the country’s social programmes should take care of persons living with disabilities, the elderly, and widows.

”Those who have suffered unimaginable losses through accidents, violence, abandonment and are now forgotten by the system that should protect them,” he said.

”These are the faces of Nigeria’s vulnerable population, and it is our moral obligation to ensure that they are not just seen but also supported with the dignity and respect they deserve.’’

Nwoko expressed concern that the initiatives introduced by successive governments to tackle poverty have failed to deliver lasting results.