by Christiana Gokyo, Jos
The Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Hon. Bernard Muhammad Doro, has asserted that his vision for the ministry is to make hope a reality for Nigerian people, especially the poor, the displaced, the vulnerable, and marginalised.
He spoke to journalists at the NUJ Press Center Jos, when he paid a visit on Monday, giving assurance that, they will pursue a humanitarian response not as charity, but as a right and a responsibility of government.
“We will build a ministry that listens, responds, and acts with transparency, accountability, and measurable impact. Every intervention must translate into food on the table, roofs over heads, children in school, and livelihoods restored,” he disclosed.
The minister was emphatic that: “Our strategic priorities in the coming months, we will strengthen social protection systems, expand access to poverty alleviation programmes, and ensure that humanitarian support reaches people where they are, not just where cameras go.
“We will work with state governments, local communities, development partners, traditional institutions and faith-based organisations to build a seamless humanitarian network across Nigeria.”
He buttressed that, “Plateau, with its diverse communities and resilient people, will serve as a model state for inclusive humanitarian action, where every displaced person is accounted for, every vulnerable household is supported, and every youth has access to skills and opportunity.
He equally assured of running an open ministry – one that welcomes scrutiny, values collaboration, and prioritises people over politics, adding, “Plateau journalists and civil society will play a crucial role, as we believe accountability begins with conversation, and progress thrives on partnership.”
According to him, “To Plateau people, this appointment is not mine alone; it is ours. Together, we will demonstrate that Plateau can lead the way in humanitarian leadership, social inclusion, and compassionate governance.”
He appreciated the President for appointing him as a minister and giving him the opportunity to serve the country.
Responding, the NUJ Chairman Plateau State Council, Ayuku Pwaspo, called on the minister to collaborate with the state government to ensure that those people affected by attacks are returned to their ancestral homes, especially those in internally-displaced (IDP) camps.
“We believe this will be the beginning of continuous engagement between your ministry and the media. Members of the press here are committed to promoting your ministry’s activities and showcasing your efforts to the public.
“We sincerely appreciate your visit to the NUJ. You have demonstrated genuine interest in working with the media; and we are grateful. Special appreciation also goes to Mr. Adams, who helped facilitate this visit – he has been a true friend of the Union,” she noted.