The Minister of Art, Culture, and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, on Sunday, again avoided providing clarity on the controversy surrounding her National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) certificate, stating that she would not be distracted by the issue.
Musawa, who previously served as President Bola Tinubu’s Adviser on Culture and Entertainment, made the comments during an interview with ThePaan Today.
The minister has faced scrutiny for not presenting proof of completing the mandatory NYSC scheme when she was screened by the Nigerian Senate for her ministerial role in 2023.
This led to a lawsuit filed by concerned Nigerians who argued that her appointment was improper without evidence of completing the NYSC program.
In April 2024, the Federal High Court in Abuja, presided over by Justice James Omotosho, dismissed the case, ruling that the plaintiffs had no legal standing to file the suit.
When asked to address the matter after a year in office, Musawa, a lawyer, reiterated that she was not ready to discuss the issue at this time.
“There have been various accounts of the situation. The fact that I am sitting here shows I didn’t do anything wrong,” she said.
“I haven’t come out to set the record straight yet. Social media has circulated different stories, but the matter has been adjudicated. One day, I will share my side.”
She added humorously, “I’ve probably done more NYSC than you (presenter). I’ve completed at least two.”
Pressed further on why she had yet to offer a full explanation to Nigerians, Musawa responded, “What I owe Nigerians is to say I didn’t break the law.
I completed my NYSC, and everything I did was legal. In time, I will clarify what happened, but for now, I am focused on delivering results for Nigerians.”
Musawa declined to confirm whether she resumed and completed the youth service during her time in office.
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