Photograph — giftadenenews.com

Last week, the city of Argungu in Kebbi state, Nigeria witnessed something unprecedented as Hindatu Umar, a 25-year old female, resumed work as the chairperson of the city’s local government council. Miss Umar isn’t just the first woman to hold such a position in the region, she is also the youngest person.

Miss Umar was appointed the chairperson of the LGC by the governor of the state, Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, following the expiration of the tenure of the former chairperson. Umar, who is a secondary school graduate has been the deputy chairperson of the council, and this appointment is, as a matter of fact, a promotion.

In reaction to her appointment, some residents complained that Umar lacks the experience and confidence to head the LGC. This is not surprising considering certain factors; Umar is a woman, she is 25 and unmarried, in northern Nigeria. People who are familiar with the culture of northerners in Nigeria know too well that their women have no voice.

Girls in northern Nigeria make up the highest number of females out of school in the country with states like Kebbi, Sokoto, Borno, Jigawa, Zamfara, and Yobe, having the poorest statistics in girl child education and highest illiteracy level. This is pretty evident in the fact that Miss Umar is only a secondary school graduate at 25. However, the fact that she is able to hold her own and attain such a position in the face of glaring cultural and societal barriers is commendable.

Also, with increased conversation around inclusivity in Nigeria’s politics and the criticisms President Buhari continues to face for his noninclusive gender-biased administration, young Umar’s appointment is quite significant. Currently, Nigeria ranks 178 out of 193 for women in national parliaments in countries around the world. While African countries like Rwanda, Senegal, and South Africa occupy the first, sixth and eighth position.

Women play a crucial role in the development of any economy, and most developed nations of the world are all for the advancement of women’s rights and equal opportunities. If Nigeria hopes to make real progress, increased women participation must be allowed in government.

“No industry or country can reach its full potential until all women reach their full potential …”- Sheryl Sandberg

Elsewhere on Ventures

Triangle arrow