FOMWAN at 40: Muslim women mobilise for climate action, community dev’t

The Federation of Muslim Women’s Associations in Nigeria (FOMWAN) has reaffirmed its leadership in faith-based community development, women’s empowerment, and climate action as it marked its 40th anniversary with a national conference in Kaduna. Themed “Empowering Muslim Women in the Face of Climate Change: Building Resilience, Sustainability and Community Development,” the event attracted policymakers, religious […]

The Federation of Muslim Women’s Associations in Nigeria (FOMWAN) has reaffirmed its leadership in faith-based community development, women’s empowerment, and climate action as it marked its 40th anniversary with a national conference in Kaduna.

Themed “Empowering Muslim Women in the Face of Climate Change: Building Resilience, Sustainability and Community Development,” the event attracted policymakers, religious leaders, and development stakeholders nationwide.

Vice-President Kashim Shettima, represented by Minister of State for Education Dr. Suwaiba Ahmad, commended FOMWAN’s dedication to advancing women within the Muslim community. He said platforms like the conference were vital for nurturing confident female leaders; while assuring that government policies would continue to prioritize women’s empowerment, peacebuilding, and socio-economic inclusion.

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, represented by Prof. Abduljalal Danbaba, lauded FOMWAN’s contributions to moral, spiritual, and educational development. Similarly, First Lady Sen. Oluremi Tinubu, represented by Hajiya Fatima Tajudeen-Abbas, described the association as a “beacon of hope and leadership,” aligning with the Renewed Hope Agenda through education, health, and empowerment.

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Kaduna State Governor, Sen. Uba Sani, represented by Deputy Governor Dr. Hadiza Balarabe, hailed FOMWAN’s four-decade impact in promoting girl-child education, livelihood empowerment, and healthcare. He pledged continued collaboration with faith-based organizations to strengthen community resilience, especially against climate change.

Founded in 1985, FOMWAN has expanded to all 36 states and the FCT, with chapters in over 600 local government areas and more than 80,000 members. It has established more than 3,000 schools nationwide and is pursuing plans to establish a FOMWAN University.

National Amirah, Mrs. Rafiah Sanni, highlighted the group’s achievements in education, healthcare, Da’awah, and empowerment, stressing its role in defending Muslim women’s rights while fostering inclusive community development.