The Ministry was created on 22nd October, 1997 following the merger of the Commission for Women and the Social Development components of the former Ministry of Social Development, Youth and Sports. This was in compliance with the Federal Government directive for creation of a Ministry to oversee the development and advancement of women and children, care of the elderly and ameliorate other related social problems within the framework of the family circle and the society at large. The Ministry is headed by a Commissioner, as the Chief Executive, who gives the general policy direction of affairs in the Ministry. Next in hierarchy is the Permanent Secretary, who is the Accounting Officer of the Ministry and is responsible for general administration and policy implementation. Directors and their support staff follow down the ladder.
STATUTORY FUNCTIONS
The Ministry is essentially social service oriented, whose functions and responsibilities are geared towards promoting the interests and welfare of women and children generally, through initiation and implementation of programs, policies and activities for their advancement in accordance with international statutes and as approved by the Federal Government. The Ministry is also responsible for matters relating to the welfare and wellbeing of other vulnerable members of the society, including the aged, distressed persons, as well as promoting the growth, sustenance and stability of the family institution as the basic unit of social organization and production in society.