The Honourable Minister of Women Affairs, Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, on Friday displayed her hallmark of humility and motherly leadership by quelling tensions and forgiving ministry workers who had recently staged protests.
At a town hall meeting in Abuja, the Minister warmly accepted staff apologies, stressing that she bore no grudges and that unity was essential for the ministry to achieve its mandate. Her gesture drew loud applause from an excited workforce, many of whom hailed her as a “mother figure.”
Union leaders, including Mrs. Anne Orjiobele and Comrade Success Alake, admitted the protest was misguided and pledged renewed loyalty and cooperation. They urged the Minister to continue prioritising staff welfare, describing the misunderstanding as unintentional.
In a symbolic act of goodwill, the Minister announced the distribution of a 50kg bag of rice to every staff member present at the meeting — a gesture that was met with cheers and celebration.
Calling on staff to rise above internal divisions, Hajiya Sulaiman-Ibrahim reminded them that the Ministry is the “conscience of the nation,” with a duty to protect the rights and welfare of women, children, families, and vulnerable groups.
“We should all be human beings first before anything else. Unity is the only way forward. I have nothing against anyone, and I believe we can solve our challenges through dialogue and mutual respect,” she said.
The Minister assured staff that welfare remains a top priority under her leadership, while clarifying that certain administrative functions rest with the Permanent Secretary and Directors.
During the meeting, workers raised concerns about housing, training, inclusion, and welfare. She promised to address them within available resources, urging staff to see themselves as partners in progress rather than adversaries.
The meeting ended in a festive mood, with staff singing, dancing, and celebrating what many described as a “new beginning” for peace and collaboration in the Ministry of Women Affairs.
ADEOLA KUNLE
