By Jubril Bada

The Federation of Muslim Women’s Associations in Nigeria (FOMWAN) has stated that poor policy implementation is the primary cause of Nigeria’s problems, including insecurity, which requires an urgent solution.

The association also called on the federal government and security agencies to secure the release of a medical doctor, Ganiyat Olawale-Popoola, who is the daughter of one of their members, and seven Catholic medical students who were abducted months ago.

The National Amirah of the association, Hajia Rafiah Sani, made this statement at a press briefing held at the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Press Centre in Akure, in preparation for FOMWAN’s 39th Annual National Conference being held today at the International Culture and Event Centre (The Dome), Akure.

This year’s conference, themed “Women and the Challenges of Insecurity,” will feature a keynote address by Prof. Y. K. Yusuf of Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife.

Sani, who lamented the extent of the damage that insecurity has done to the country, noted that poor implementation of policies in the education sector, a high rate of poverty, and lack of empowerment are significant contributors to the security challenges facing the nation.

She emphasised that if these contributing factors are addressed with lasting solutions, the country will be better for it.

Given the current global challenges, especially regarding security, Sani said FOMWAN believes it is crucial for members to gather and learn from scholars about what Islam teaches them on these issues and how they can align their lives with the guidance of Allah.

She informed that since its establishment in 1985, FOMWAN has served as a voice for women and children, with its efforts centred on key areas such as Da’wah (calling to the way of Allah), education, health, women and youth empowerment, humanitarian services, and community development.

Responding to questions, former National Amirah and Chairperson of the National Organising Committee for the conference, Prof. Lateefa Durosemi, called on the federal government to redouble its efforts in tackling poverty to help the country rid itself of insecurity.

She also noted that empowering women and girls, and ensuring their security, would enhance peace, as they are often the major victims of kidnapping and insecurity.

She pointed out that FOMWAN has been an advocate for education at every level, encouraging almajiri children who are out of school to return.

She noted that the lack of education has been a contributing factor to insecurity in the country, which is why the association has been involved in a retreat and a bill submitted to the National Assembly to eradicate the almajiri system in Northern Nigeria.

Corroborating the response to questions, members of the National Board of Trustees, Prof. Saadiya Omar; former National Amirah, Hajia Khariat; and National Naiba Amirah, Dr. Sumaye Hamza, highlighted the importance of education as a key to liberation, which they noted that Prophet Muhammad emphasised in the holy Qur’an, stating that seeking knowledge is obligatory for every Muslim from cradle to grave.

According to them, “Absence of knowledge is the root of insecurity, and it is our responsibility to advocate policies that will enhance education.”

They called on the government to allocate more funds to the education and agriculture sectors, among others, to alleviate poverty.

They also added that food security and empowerment must be holistically addressed to enhance the well-being of people for a better Nigeria.