Strengthening Social Work Capacity Key to National Development — Minister Sulaiman-Ibrahim

De-Patriot News Desk

The Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, has underscored the need to strengthen social work capacity across Nigeria, describing it as a critical pillar for national development and sustainable growth.

The minister made the remark on Wednesday in Benin City during one of the ceremonial sessions of the 25th National Council on Women Affairs and Child Development.

Sulaiman-Ibrahim said Nigeria cannot achieve its development goals without investing in the structures and systems that support vulnerable populations, noting that social workers play a pivotal role in community stability, family welfare, and national progress.

“Social work is critical for national development,” she declared, stressing that stronger coordination, accountability, and shared commitment are required from government institutions, development partners, and professionals across the social development sector.

The minister pointed to global examples where social development has been prioritized, citing the United Arab Emirates, which channels 38 percent of its national budget into social development initiatives. Such investments, she said, demonstrate what is possible when nations commit to building strong social systems.

She also emphasized the role of women’s economic empowerment in national transformation, referencing the Chinese Women’s Federation as a model for organized and impactful women-focused development.

According to her, empowering women economically has a ripple effect that strengthens families, communities, and the larger economy.
“When women are empowered, society becomes stronger and more resilient,” she said.

Sulaiman-Ibrahim expressed concern over persistent challenges in Nigeria’s social development landscape, including insufficient investment, duplication of efforts, and weak institutional coordination. She called for collective action to address these issues and for stakeholders to adopt a harmonized approach that ensures efficiency and meaningful impact.

“Everyone has a role to play in building a stronger, more prosperous nation,” she added, urging stakeholders to work together toward a society that values, supports, and empowers women and vulnerable populations.

The minister’s remarks reinforced the need for a national agenda that places social development at the heart of economic and governance reforms.