“Women still remain the best at handling public edifices” — TY Danjuma

General Theophilus Danjuma, the former Chief of Army Staff known as TY Danjuma, made remarks about his past perception of women in high-ranking positions, highlighting a change in his perspective influenced by encounters with exceptional individuals.

Speaking at the inauguration of the Goodwill Medical Centre established by his Foundation at Umuchigbo, Iji Nike, Enugu, Danjuma recounted his previous belief in the capabilities of women to execute tasks efficiently without excuses until an incident involving a female former petroleum minister altered his viewpoint.

While refraining from directly naming the minister, TY Danjuma pointed out that she had excelled in corrupt practices, setting a record that remained unmatched. He emphasized reconsidering his viewpoint until encountering Prof. Uche Amazigo, which prompted a shift in his perception.

“I used to advocate for giving jobs to women, believing they would perform with excellence and deliver on time without excuses. However, that changed with a female petroleum minister who excelled in corruption, setting an unparalleled record,” Danjuma remarked.

Expressing admiration for Uche Amazigo’s character and contributions, the retired Army General highlighted how his interactions with her had reshaped his belief in the integrity of women managing public funds responsibly.

Reflecting on their association, Danjuma described their longstanding professional relationship and recounted a recent encounter where Prof. Uche Amazigo, accompanied by fellow professors, proposed support for establishing a cost-effective high-quality medical center managed predominantly by female medical practitioners dedicated to serving humanity.

Impressed by the proposal, TY Danjuma probed Amazigo about the logistics and sustainability of an all-female-staffed medical facility. Satisfied with her responses, he lauded the initiative, emphasizing that such remarkable edifices were achievable by women, contrasting his belief that men often fail to deliver despite financial investments.

The inauguration of the Goodwill Medical Centre stood as a testament to Danjuma’s changed perspective, recognizing the competence and commitment of women in executing projects and managing resources effectively for the benefit of society.