Betta Edu

Betta Chimaobim Edu (born October 27, 1986, in Lagos, Nigeria) is a Nigerian medical doctor and politician. She is recognized for her roles in public health and political leadership, particularly as the youngest minister in Nigeria's Fourth Republic upon her appointment in 2023.Early Life and Education Betta Edu was born in Lagos, Nigeria, into the family of Mr. Emmanuel Eke, and is a twin. She spent time in London before returning to Cross River State with her family. She received her tertiary education at the University of Calabar, where she studied medicine. Her specialized education includes a Post Graduate Diploma and a Master's degree in Public Health for Developing Countries from the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, as well as a Doctor of Public Health from Texila American University.Career Progression and Major Achievements Dr. Edu began her career in the health sector before transitioning into politics. She was appointed as the Cross River State Commissioner for Health in December 2019, a position she held until March 2022. During this time, she notably led the state's COVID-19 Task Force and also served as the National Chairman of the Nigeria Health Commissioners Forum. In March 2022, Edu joined the All Progressives Congress (APC) and became the party's youngest National Women Leader, serving until August 2023. Her political trajectory continued with her appointment by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. In August 2023, Betta Edu was sworn in as the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, succeeding Sadiya Umar Farouq. This appointment made her the first female minister from Cross River State and the youngest minister in the current Republic.Current Status Dr. Betta Edu served as Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation from August 21, 2023, until her suspension from the position on January 8, 2024, following allegations of financial misconduct. As of the time of this writing, she remains on suspension. She has received several awards for her service, including the Nigeria Quintessential Woman Award (2020) and an Award of Excellence in Gender Inclusion (2023) from the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs.