ActionAid Nigeria Criticises Tinubu’s Reshuffled Cabinet, Demands For More Women

Abuja, Nigeria – ActionAid Nigeria has expressed deep disappointment over the lack of increased representation for women in President Bola Tinubu’s recently announced cabinet reshuffle.

While acknowledging the President’s prerogative to restructure the government, the organisation highlighted that the opportunity to advance gender equality was missed.

The Country Director, Andrew Mamedu, stated that the removal of three female Ministers and the appointment of only three new Ministers among seven new appointments raises “serious questions” about the government’s commitment to gender equality and the 35% Affirmative Action benchmark.

“In a country with already low representation of women in both elective and appointed positions, this was a crucial opportunity for the government to advance gender parity,” said Mamedu in a statement released on Thursday.

“Appointing more women would have signalled a decisive step toward closing this persistent gap. Instead, this move reinforces systemic exclusion and undermines years of advocacy for gender inclusion.”

While recognizing the President’s intent to address underperformance and ensure accountability, ActionAid Nigeria urged the administration to investigate the root causes of past failures and implement preventative measures.

They also expressed concern over the increasing size of the cabinet and the associated costs of governance.

The organisation emphasised the need for a people-centred approach to governance, prioritising poverty reduction, social protection, and humanitarian support.

They called on the newly appointed Ministers to resist personal agendas and focus on existing frameworks and strategic objectives.

“Citizens expect a government that prioritizes their well-being and delivers results efficiently and transparently,” concluded Mamedu.

“We remain committed to holding leaders accountable to these standards and advocating for a government that works for the benefit of all Nigerians.”