During the recent screening of Nentawe Yilwatda, the newly appointed Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Senator Ali Ndume, representing Borno South, offered key advice. He stressed the importance of using financial technology to enhance support for vulnerable populations in Nigeria. Ndume referred to the removal of Yilwatda’s predecessor, Betta Edu, earlier this year, to highlight the significance of the minister’s role.

Ndume noted that the ministry is responsible for initiatives that support over 60% of Nigerians living in poverty, making its mission crucial. In response, Yilwatda promised to utilize technology and innovative solutions to tackle the escalating humanitarian crisis facing the country. Following this exchange, Senate President Godswill Akpabio allowed Yilwatda to leave the session.

“The humanitarian ministry is the most crucial today,” Ndume stated. “With a worsening humanitarian crisis, you know the reasons behind your predecessor’s exit. My question is, what measures will you take to tackle this emergency?” Ndume asked. “Your expertise in ICT is a plus. How do you plan to employ this in addressing these pressing issues?”

Yilwatda, who has a background as a registered engineer and extensive experience in community development, was appointed by President Bola Tinubu to replace Edu. Edu had faced suspension due to allegations of unauthorized fund approvals, which she denied, claiming they were efforts to defame her. This cabinet reshuffle by President Tinubu comes amid increasing criticism of his administration, with five ministers removed, ten reassigned, and seven new appointees introduced to address Nigeria’s deepening economic and security issues.