The Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, has held a wide-ranging town hall meeting with staff in Abuja, urging unity, patience, and renewed discipline as the ministry drives forward its ambitious agenda for women, children, and vulnerable groups in Nigeria.
The Minister described the convergence as a “litmus test of mutual trust and confidence,” appealing for staff cooperation to turn policies into delivery.
“Everything starts with trust,” she told staff, stressing that the meeting provided an opportunity to clear misunderstandings and explain how the ministry’s work is structured.
Leadership Collaboration
Sulaiman-Ibrahim praised the synergy at the top, commending her strong working relationship with the Permanent Secretary, assuring staff and union leaders that this collaboration was already accelerating implementation of core programmes.
Recounting recent initiatives, she highlighted ongoing welfare and outreach programmes, including a major offer to run free medical outreach for tens of thousands of women, which she stressed must be matched with timely administrative follow-through.
Reaffirming the ministry’s role in women’s empowerment, child welfare, and social inclusion, she urged staff to treat their responsibilities with seriousness and compassion.
Describing herself as fully invested in the mission, she declared: “I am a mover, I’m a go-getter, I’m a problem solver,” while appealing for equal commitment across departments to match her drive.
The Minister also underscored the importance of civility and courtesy in the workplace, linking respect to the ministry’s public standing and its ability to win partners.
In a rare conciliatory moment, staff representatives including Union Chairperson, Mrs. Anne Orjiobele, and Comrade Success Alake, urged her to continue prioritising staff welfare.
She reminded workers that the ministry is the “conscience of the country,” with a mandate to champion the welfare of women, children, families, and vulnerable groups.
At the meeting, staff raised concerns on welfare, housing, training, and inclusion. The Minister pledged to address them within available resources, while urging directors to take ownership of their responsibilities.