Kaduna Commissioner Advocates Policies to Address Insecurity, Girl-Child Education

The Kaduna State Commissioner for Women Affairs, Hajiya Rabi Salisu, has called for policies to address the impact of insecurity on girl-child education in Nigeria, particularly across the northern region.

Salisu made the call at a reception organised in her honour following the conferment of a doctorate degree in Security and Strategic Studies by the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), held on Thursday in Kaduna.

Doctoral Research Focused on Kaduna State

She revealed that her doctoral research focused on "Girl-Child Education and the Impact of Insecurity in Nigeria: A Case Study of Kaduna State, 2015–2023," explaining that the study was driven by her passion for girl-child education and concerns about how insecurity continues to affect educational opportunities for girls. She expressed hope that her findings would help governments strengthen policies and decision-making on issues affecting women and girls.

"Alhamdulillah, I want to thank Almighty Allah for giving me the opportunity to complete my thesis on girl-child education and the impact of insecurity in Nigeria. I hope that my thesis will guide and sharpen government policies when it comes to decision-making concerning the girl-child and women, especially in Kaduna State," she said.

Balancing Marriage, Career, and Academic Pursuits

Salisu said combining her public service career, family responsibilities, and academic pursuits demanded determination, dedication, and effective time management. She disclosed that she married at the age of 18 but continued her education throughout, going on to acquire five master's degrees and a PhD while married. "It's difficult, but not impossible. Today, I have made it, and it is an achievement for every girl-child in Kaduna State and beyond," she said.

The commissioner urged women and adolescent girls to set ambitious goals, identify their values, and pursue their educational and professional aspirations regardless of their circumstances. She particularly encouraged girls who married before attaining higher educational qualifications to continue pursuing their dreams. "When you aspire big, you can achieve big. Women should have goals, know their values and set objectives in life. If women in elective and appointed positions continue to promote education, it will encourage others to believe that they can also achieve their dreams," she said.

Salisu further called for sustained efforts to reduce the number of girls and women currently out of school across northern Nigeria.

Tributes from Colleagues and Stakeholders

Also speaking, Commissioner for Youth Development, Gloria Ibrahim, described Salisu as a mobiliser, coordinator, and leader passionate about women and children. "We are very proud of you. You are passionate about women and children, and we pray that Almighty God will continue to bless you and open more doors for you to support underserved and less privileged people," she said.

Similarly, Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs, Yunana Barde, described Salisu as a mother, sister, and friend to many, noting that the reception was organised to celebrate her academic achievement and contributions to the community.

Commissioner for Education, Prof. Abubakar Sambo, said Salisu's doctorate had strengthened her credentials as an academic and intellectual, disclosing plans to have Kaduna State University engage her as a part-time lecturer in political science. "With her PhD, she's now an academic and an intellectual. I am going to get Kaduna State University to engage her as a part-time lecturer so that she can continue her research in political science," he said.

Woman leader Hajara Larai described Salisu as a compassionate person who relates well with people and ensures that others are carried along, noting that her commitment to supporting orphans, older persons, and other vulnerable groups has earned her considerable goodwill within the community.