Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, Minister of Women Affairs, has advocated for renaming the ministry to the Federal Ministry of Women, Children, Families, and Vulnerable Groups.

This is contained in a statement by Jonathan Eze, the minister’s media aide, in commemoration of the 2025 Democracy Day celebration on Thursday in Abuja.

She highlighted the gains achieved by the ministry, such as the increased budgetary allocations to the Maryam Babangida National Centre for Women Development, signalling national recognition of the strategic role women and families play in society.

“Our work remains anchored in the mandate to protect, empower, and uplift women, children, families, and vulnerable groups. But today’s democracy demands more than protection; it demands participation. We must all become architects of the Nigeria we seek.

“That is why we support the call for renaming the Ministry to reflect its expanded and integrated mandate as the Federal Ministry of Women, Children, Families, and Vulnerable Groups.

“The name must match the vision. The vision must match the need. And the need must guide the mission,” she added.

Reiterating the government’s commitment to addressing challenges affecting women and children, the minister acknowledged their significant contributions to democracy, peacebuilding, and national development.

“Let us recommit to a democracy that works in the farms and factories, in the homes and hospitals, in classrooms and council halls.

“Let us recommit to a democracy where every woman counts, every child matters, every family belongs, and every vulnerable person is seen and served.

“Democracy is not an event; it is a daily covenant. Let us keep it alive, not just with laws, but with love, not just with policies, but with purpose, not just with votes, but with values.

“Nigeria belongs to all of us. Our democracy is stronger when it is inclusive. Our future is brighter when no one is left behind. And our calling is higher when it is rooted in justice, dignity, and hope,” she added.

(NAN)