NASoW Urges Tinubu to Establish Nigerian Council for Social Work 

Kemi Olaitan in Ibadan 

The Nigeria Association of Social Workers (NASoW) has raised the alarm over the delay over the establishment of the Nigerian Council for Social Work, stating that the setback has jeopardised the integrity and effectiveness of social work in the country.

The association, in a formal letter addressed to President Bola Tinubu, called for immediate action to finalise the council’s constitution and inauguration.

The copy of the letter, signed by its National President, Alhaji Mashood Mustapha, in Ibadan, was submitted to the Presidential Villa and made public through the association’s spokesperson, Musliudeen Adebayo.

Mustapha emphasised the pressing need for oversight in the social work profession, which is currently operating without the necessary regulatory framework.

He highlighted that the Nigerian Council for Social Work, mandated by the Nigerian Council for Social Work (Establishment) Act of 2022, remains unformed despite its critical role in upholding professional standards.

The NASoW president pointed out that the previous administration had initiated the process but left it incomplete, adding that while the former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Dr. Betta Edu, had made progress in this direction, her suspension brought the initiative to a halt.

Mustapha expressed concern over interference from the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs, which has historically opposed the establishment of the council thereby complicating its formation further.

In his plea, the association’s president insisted that qualified social workers should lead the council to ensure that its activities align with professional standards.

He cautioned against any attempt to sidestep established protocols or involve unrelated ministries in the council’s formation.

He appealed to President Tinubu to prioritise the council’s establishment to safeguard the profession’s credibility, assuring Nigerians that NASoW members remain committed to maintaining the integrity of social work and are eager for the timely resolution of the issues.