Toba Owojaiye ReportingÂ
When the amiable Honourable Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr. Betta Edu, in the pursuit of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s ambitious Renewed Hope Agenda appointed Hon. Olubunmi Bello as the National Programme Manager of the Community and Social Development Project (CSDP), many people agreed that the appointment was strategic and a round peg in a round hole.
This move signifies a significant step towards revitalizing Nigeria’s social safety net program and addressing the multifaceted challenges of poverty and humanitarian crises.
With over 22 years of experience in project management and community engagement, Hon. Olubunmi Bello is exceptionally well-suited to lead this effort. A graduate of Accounting from Obafemi Awolowo University, her extensive expertise and strategic acumen in community service delivery make her pivotal in steering the National CSDP mandate towards unprecedented success.
In Hon. Olubunmi Bello, the Honourable Minister, and indeed Nigeria, has found a dedicated and accomplished leader to guide the Community and Social Development Project towards a brighter future. Her extensive experience, unwavering commitment, and strategic vision position her as a driving force in the fight against poverty and the alleviation of human suffering. As the National Programme Manager of the CSDP, she embodies hope, progress, and the promise of a better Nigeria.
Furthermore, on an interview by Arise News, Hon Olubunmi Bello, then Senior Special Assistant to Ekiti State Governor Kayode Fayemi on Public-Private Partnerships, stood firm to debunk the claim of vote-buying in the gubernatorial election held in Ekiti state in June 2022, demonstrating her commitment to fair electoral practices and upholding the democratic process.
In her role as the National Convener of the Tinubu Titans, Mrs. Olubunmi Bello plays a vital role in mobilizing women across Ekiti State to support the Presidential candidate. Her philosophy of “you may not be seen, but you must be felt” underscores her impactful work and grassroots engagement.
Her appointment underscores her unwavering commitment to delivering impactful outcomes, even in challenging environments. Her previous role as the Special Assistant to former Governor Kayode Fayemi of Ekiti State on Public-Private Partnership from 2019 to 2022 showcased her ability to lead, organize, and achieve results.
One of her standout qualities is her adeptness in navigating complex challenges with grace and efficacy. As the National Programme Manager of CSDP, she will oversee the program’s activities in all 36 states of Nigeria, including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). Her proven track record and leadership skills will undoubtedly be invaluable in coordinating nationwide efforts.
Hon. Olubunmi Bello’s role extends beyond traditional project management; it aligns with the broader vision of President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. Her responsibilities encompass orchestrating a comprehensive approach to addressing the root causes of poverty and humanitarian crises, aiming to create a prosperous and equitable Nigeria.
Under President Tinubu’s directive, the CSDP has been tasked with an expanded mandate: to comprehensively tackle the multifaceted challenges of poverty in Nigeria at the grassroots level. The program seeks to provide support to those affected by humanitarian crises while actively working towards eradicating multi-dimensional poverty. In this new phase, the CSDP will serve as a lifeline for vulnerable communities, fostering sustainable infrastructural development and promoting self-reliance.
One of Hon. Olubunmi Bello’s core competencies lies in forming strategic alliances. This skill will be pivotal in forging partnerships and collaborations with state agencies, non-governmental organizations, and international partners to amplify the impact of the CSDP in uplifting communities and eradicating poverty.
The reach of the CSDP extends across Nigeria, touching the lives of millions. Hon. Olubunmi Bello’s journey is not just a professional milestone but a profound commitment to the nation’s well-being. Her mission to rejuvenate the CSDP and align it with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda is a noble undertaking that holds the potential to transform countless lives.
Additionally, Bello’s dedication to women’s empowerment and participation in governance is noteworthy. Her service as one of the Coordinators of the 2022 Women Campaign Council during the Ekiti State Governorship Election and her role as a member of the Tinubu Professional Women Campaign Council illustrate her commitment to fostering inclusive development and gender equality.
The revival of the Community and Social Development Project (CSDP) under Betta Edu’s leadership presents a critical opportunity to address human development needs in Nigeria. Hon. Olubunmi Bello’s appointment as one of national programme coordinator CSDP reflects her commitment to improving access to services for human development and her dedication to this vital project’s success.
In summary, Hon. Olubunmi Bello stands as a symbol of hope, progress, and transformation in Nigeria. Her meteoric rise from grassroots politics to the national stage, is only testament to decades of loyalty, patience, grits, guts and conviction. Her dedication to alleviating poverty, empowering women, and fostering inclusive development positions her as a driving force in the nation’s journey towards a brighter and more prosperous future.