By Damilola Abiola
The Minister of Women Affairs, Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, has appealed for professionalism and mutual respect following a staff demonstration at the Ministry’s headquarters earlier today.
In a statement issued by her Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Jonathan Eze, the Minister acknowledged the right of staff to express concerns but stressed that such actions must remain within the bounds of civil service rules.
“As a certified Human Resource Manager with years of practical experience, I understand that staff welfare, motivation, and professional development are vital to institutional performance,” Sulaiman-Ibrahim said. “These are areas I take seriously and continue to advocate for within the limits of available resources.”
She clarified that matters of finance and staff administration do not fall directly under her office. “The Minister is not the Chief Accounting Officer of the Ministry. These issues fall under the Permanent Secretary, who is expected to engage the directors, assess the grievances raised, and provide appropriate recommendations,” the statement read.
The Minister also cautioned against personal attacks and unfounded claims, noting that they undermine the spirit of service. “I remain committed to doing what is right, guided by established rules and the principles of public service,” she added.
Reaffirming her respect for the workforce, Sulaiman-Ibrahim called for all future engagements to be anchored on mutual respect, professionalism, and a focus on delivering the Ministry’s mandate to women, children, and vulnerable groups nationwide.