Northern Nigerian Women vs Adversity: A Reflection on 2023
As we step into the new year, let's reflect on the resilience and achievements of Northern Nigerian women amid the challenges of 2023. Despite the prevalent insecurity, these women not only faced adversity but excelled in various fields, from politics to academia, music, and activism.
In this review, we shine a spotlight on their remarkable stories, showcasing their triumphs against a backdrop of uncertainty and turmoil.
At the end of the first quarter of 2023, there were several reports of bandit attacks and abductions in the Northwest and Central regions.
On the 9th of January, bandits attacked Birnin-Gwari Local Government Area of Kaduna State, according to a report by The PUNCH. On 23 March, a clash between herders and farmers was reported in the community of Atakpa in the Oshigbudu ward of Agatu LGA in Benue state.
There were isolated Bandit attacks on female students in their various hostels, as well as harassment by Hisbah officials towards the end of the year. On the 25th of September, Bandits abducted 21 female students in Zamfara. A military drone attack targeted at terrorists killed 85 civilians in Kaduna on the 5th of December
Amid the insecurity, Northern Nigerian women thrived in their respective fields and endeavors. They managed to stand out and make a name for themselves in politics. Aisha Binani came close to becoming the first female elected governor in the country. Natasha Akpothi was appointed senator in Kogi state after facing much opposition and even threats to her life.
The Taraba State government appointed 7 female commissioners despite female representation in the Senate and House of Representatives dwindling even more compared to the last term. These women managed to put up resistance against their male counterparts.
Document Women discussed female political participation in Northern Nigeria with Ndi Kato. In the aftermath of the 2023 general elections, Nasarawa women took over the state capital of Lafia in an act of protest against the police prohibition on demonstrations over the state's handling of the governorship election on March 18.
Rhoda Jatau, a health worker living in Bauchi, was released on Bail on the 9th of December. She was arrested in 2022 after she denounced the public lynching of University student Deborah Samuel over a WhatsApp message.
Document Women reported the success of Hadiza Galadanci, the first female professor of obstetrics and gynecology in Northern Nigeria, in research into the prevention and treatment of postpartum hemorrhage. Aisha Ali-Gombe was appointed as the director of Louisiana State University's brand-new cybersecurity clinic on June 19th.
Taraba State indigene, Emoseh Khamofu known by the stage name Bloody Civilian had her first Grammy nomination making her the first female producer from Nigeria to be nominated for a Grammy award.
Hassana Maina launched Asviol Anti Sexual Violence Lead Support Initiative a Non-Governmental Organization created to spread awareness and create a safe space for victims of sexual violence.
Nana-Hauwa Sule and Hauwa Saleh emerged as first and second runner-ups For the 2022 Alitfest short story prize which was announced in July. Nana Sule also named one of the notable entries of the inaugural Abebi Award for Afro Non-fiction
Towards the end of the year, several events were held to spotlight the talent and artistry of Northern Nigeria. At the forefront of this showcase was Northern Nigerian women who had been running these events. Kafart (Kaduna Fashion and Art Exhibition), organized by Ganeeyah Sani held its 4th edition in November.
Affest (Arewa Fashion and Food Festival), organized by Bilkisu Abdulrasheed Shebby held its first edition in December; and Arts and Vibes, organized by Suchet Baba took place at the end of December. These events brought to the spotlight many Designers and Artists Artists—these events which included visual art exhibitions, fashion shows and culinary displays are slowly reviving Kaduna’s art scene making it the arts capital of Northern Nigeria.