President Tinubu Approves Key Appointment at Women Development Centre
President Bola Tinubu has reportedly approved the appointment of Adedayo Laniyi as the new Director General and Chief Executive Officer of the Maryam Babangida National Centre for Women Development. The announcement was made on Thursday, May 14, 2026, sparking reactions across the nation.
The appointment was conveyed in an official letter signed by Senator George Akume, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, and issued by Ibrahim Kana, the Permanent Secretary of the General Services Office. According to the statement, the appointment took effect retroactively from April 18, 2020.
Chris Ugwuegbulam, the Head of Information and Public Relations, further clarified that the appointment aligns with Section 7 (1) and (3) of the National Centre for Women Development (Amendment) Act, 2023. This legal framework ensures the centre operates under updated guidelines for women's empowerment and development.
Governing Council Members Announced
In addition to the new DG, President Tinubu approved the constitution of the centre's governing council. Princess Joan Jummai Idonije has been appointed as the Chairman of the governing council. Other members include Lois Auta, Jamila Sarki, Aisha Baiyee, Jumoke Okoya-Thomas, and Princess Anne Agom-Eze. The president congratulated all appointees and extended his best wishes for their tenure.
This move is seen as a strategic political gain, particularly among opposition leaders and their supporters, as Tinubu continues to make numerous appointments since assuming office. The appointments are expected to bolster institutional leadership within the women's development sector.
Public Reactions to the Appointment
The announcement has generated mixed reactions from Nigerians on social media. Zino Tips commended the president, stating: "The appointment of Adedayo Benjamin Laniyi as Director General of the MBNCWD signifies a continued focus on institutional leadership within the women’s development sector. Governed by the 2023 Amendment Act, this four-year term alongside the newly constituted Governing Council led by Princess Joan Jummai Idonije will be instrumental in executing federal gender empowerment and research mandates."
Another user, Aonation, expressed skepticism: "Another political appointment season, hoping competence actually comes first this time." Joendrick questioned the role of Vice President Shettima, comparing it to previous administrations: "I still don't understand the use of Shettima in Nigeria because I still remember each time Buhari is not in Nigeria, Osibanjo was in charge, but the reverse is the case in the Tinubu regime. Why?"
Photizo Resources commented sarcastically: "She's coming to share a few sewing machines, kitchen utensils, rice, abada, etc." These reactions reflect a divided public opinion on the appointment.
Background on the Appointments
President Tinubu has been active in filling key positions since his election. This latest appointment is part of a broader strategy to strengthen federal institutions focused on gender equality and women's development. The Maryam Babangida National Centre for Women Development plays a crucial role in research, policy advocacy, and empowerment programs for women across Nigeria.
The appointment of Adedayo Laniyi and the new governing council is expected to bring fresh perspectives and continuity to the centre's operations. With a four-year term, the team will be responsible for executing federal mandates on gender empowerment and research.
