Naja'atu Bala Muhammad
Naja'atu Bala Muhammad, a trailblazing figure in Northern Nigerian politics, has shattered the glass ceiling for women's participation in the legislative process. Born in 1956 into a family deeply rooted in socialist values, the family of Alhaji Ali Abdullahi, who happens to be one of Mallam Aminu Kano’s contemporaries in the Northern Elements Progressive Union (NEPU).
She embarked on a journey of activism and unionism from a young age. After completing her education at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, where she earned a bachelor's degree in history, Naja'atu Bala Muhammad became a prominent voice for the people of Kano.
Her political career reached new heights when she became the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) nominee for the Kano Central Senatorial District in 2007. Prior to this, she made history as the first female president of the National Students Union at Ahmadu Bello University and later served as the first female vice-president of the National Association of Nigerian Students.
Naja'atu Bala Muhammad's dedication to fighting corruption and advocating for the rights of her constituents has earned her widespread admiration.
Achievements
Naja’atu Bala Mohammed took women’s participation in politics to a different level and she is regarded as one of the foremost social figures and political activists, serving as the voice of the people of Kano.
She believes that corruption must be eradicated and the battle must be fought,this she has said both in private spaces and public functions.
Speaking on her political career, she said,
“Before I thought of contesting elections, I had to think of all the school fees, feeding, my mother and father. So, there is that basic responsibility.”
She was nominated and made a part of the committee saddled with the responsibility of dialoguing and fostering reconciliatory meetings between the members of the Boko Haram Sect and the Nigerian Government. while some members of the committee (mostly men) opted out, because of the apparent dangers, Naja’atu Bala Mohammed considered it an opportunity to contribute her quota to nation-building and peace enhancement in Nigeria.When asked why she didn’t withdraw or opt-out of the committee like others, “ I vowed not to ever pull out of the committee, and by the ‘permission of Allah’, I will try my best in carrying out my duties,”
She has been actively involved in various initiatives aimed at promoting dialogue and reconciliation, including serving on committees tasked with engaging the Boko Haram in peace talks.
Despite facing challenges and obstacles, Naja'atu Bala Muhammad remains steadfast in her commitment to public service and integrity. She has demonstrated her principles by rejecting political appointments that she felt were not properly consulted on, such as the chairmanship of the Federal University Dutse.
Through her leadership and perseverance, Naja'atu Bala Muhammad serves as a powerful reminder that women have the ability to break through barriers and achieve their aspirations in politics and beyond.