From Femi Mustapha, in Kaduna
The Federation of Muslim Women’s Associations in Nigeria (FOMWAN) has successfully concluded its 40th anniversary conference, urging the government, stakeholders, and individuals to take immediate action to tackle the pressing challenges of climate change, drug abuse, and insecurity in the country.
The conference, themed “Empowering Muslim Women in the Face of Climate Change – Building Resilience, Sustainability, and Community Development,” put forth several key recommendations.
These included empowering Muslim women to develop resilience against climate change and its impacts, implementing a tree planting project across communities, and establishing Green Ambassadors Clubs in all FOMWAN schools to promote sustainability.
Additionally, the conference emphasized the importance of advocating for alternative local energy sources through international conferences and partnerships with relevant organizations.
During the event, a change in leadership was announced, with Dr. Fadimatu Sumaye Hamza elected as the new National Amirah of FOMWAN. Other executive members include Hajia Zeenat Isiemekhan as Vice President, Hajia Hawau Abdullah as Public Relations Officer, Khadijah Olahan as Da’wah Officer, and Dr. Halima Egberongbe as Assistant Secretary.
FOMWAN reiterated its call for immediate action from the government, stakeholders, and individuals to address the challenges of climate change, drug abuse, and insecurity. The organization remains committed to empowering Muslim women, promoting community development, and advocating for climate change resilience and sustainability.
The conference was attended by notable dignitaries, including Nigeria’s Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, represented by the Minister of State for Education, Professor Suwaibah Ahmed. Also present were the Wife of the President, Senator Oluremi Bola Ahmed Tinubu, represented by Hajia Fatima Tajudeen Abbas, and the Deputy Governor of Kaduna State, Dr. Hadiza S. Balarabe.
More than 1,500 participants from all 36 states of Nigeria, including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), attended the conference. International organizations, such as FOMWA UK, FOMWAG, and FOMWA Niger Republic, were also represented.
Hajia Amina Equally, the Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations, delivered a goodwill message, congratulating FOMWAN on its contributions to developmental issues and encouraging the organization to maintain its momentum.
