FOMWAN launches tree-planting initiative, elects new national Amirah, others

The Federation of Muslim Women’s Associations in Nigeria (FOMWAN) has launched an ambitious climate resilience agenda and ushered in new leadership during its 40th anniversary and annual national conference held in Kaduna. With the theme “Empowering Muslim Women in the Face of Climate Change – Building Resilience, Sustainability, and Community Development”, the conference highlighted the […]

The Federation of Muslim Women’s Associations in Nigeria (FOMWAN) has launched an ambitious climate resilience agenda and ushered in new leadership during its 40th anniversary and annual national conference held in Kaduna.

With the theme “Empowering Muslim Women in the Face of Climate Change – Building Resilience, Sustainability, and Community Development”, the conference highlighted the urgent need to involve women in mitigating the impact of extreme weather events, flooding, desertification, and food insecurity.

In a communique, signed by Dr. Zainab Ahmed (Chairperson), Hajiya Bilqis Oladimeji (Secretary), and Dr. Balbasatu Ibrahim (Member), FOMWAN reaffirmed its commitment to empowering Muslim women, advancing climate resilience, and tackling critical issues such as drug abuse and insecurity in communities.

The association also unveiled a nationwide tree-planting initiative and the establishment of Green Ambassadors Clubs across its schools to promote sustainability.

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It further pledged to promote alternative local energy sources, empower women as climate advocates, and encourage youth to use social media positively as “eco-ambassadors.”

“Climate change is no longer a distant threat. It is here with us in flooded farmlands, drought-stricken communities, and displaced families,” the communique said.

More than 1,550 delegates from Nigeria and international sister organizations attended the event, which also witnessed a change of leadership.

Dr. Fadimatu Sumaye Hamza emerged as the new National Amirah, succeeding Hajia Rafiah Idowu Sanni. Other newly elected executives include Hajia Zeenat Isiemekhan as Vice President, Hajia Hawau Abdullah as Public Relations Officer, and Dr. Halima Egberongbe as Assistant Secretary.

Global dignitaries, including the UN Deputy Secretary-General, Hajia Amina Mohammed, sent goodwill messages, commending FOMWAN’s contributions to national development and urging it to sustain momentum in addressing contemporary challenges.