Nigerians react as Women Affairs Minister shares ₦100,000 bundles in viral video

Nigerians have taken to social media to question the circumstances surrounding the distribution of cash by the Minister of Women Affairs, Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, after videos showing her sharing bundles of ₦100,000 to women at an event circulated online.

The videos, which have attracted widespread reactions on X, did not indicate the purpose of the cash distribution, prompting questions about the source of the money and whether the exercise was connected to political activities ahead of the forthcoming elections.

Some users criticised the gesture, arguing that the government should prioritise essential public services, including healthcare, education, electricity and security, amid the country’s economic challenges.

Reacting, @JustineTy described the distribution as “weaponising poverty”, arguing that similar cash distributions in other settings could attract scrutiny from relevant authorities.

Another user, @bigforceX , questioned the government’s priorities, writing “There is no money for ambulance, subsidy, 24/7 power, healthcare, security and education. But there is money for election, selection, vote buying and rigging.”

Similarly, @Relalamaka expressed concerns about the exercise, asking “Where all this money come from? What’s the reason for this?”

However, some social media users acknowledged the importance of supporting women financially but argued that cash handouts should not replace sustainable empowerment programmes.

“Giving women money is good, but what is the long-term plan? Empowerment should go beyond sharing cash. Women need opportunities to become financially independent,” @ZWrites said.

Another commenter urged beneficiaries to accept the money but remain independent in their political choices, saying: “Collect the money and boycott her in the election.”

As reactions continue to trail the videos, questions remain about the source of the funds, the purpose of the distribution and whether it forms part of a broader women empowerment initiative.

The minister is yet to officially react to the video as at the time of filing this report.