Inuwa Yahaya: A ‘He for She’ Governor
Since the historic Beijing Conference of 1995, the global discourse on women’s empowerment in politics and governance has reverberated across nations, Nigeria being no exception. In the quest for gender equality, women have relentlessly championed their causes, demanding greater representation and participation in decision-making processes. However, amidst the entrenched patriarchal norms and cultural barriers, progress has often been slow and arduous.
Enter Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State, a trailblazer in the realm of gender mainstreaming and women’s empowerment.
In the eyes of many, Governor Inuwa Yahaya is not just a political leader but a visionary crusader for gender mainstreaming and women’s empowerment. His efforts to dismantle barriers and create opportunities for women in politics and governance have set a precedent for others to follow, paving the way for a more inclusive and equitable society in Gombe State and beyond.
The Governor, upon assuming office in 2019, embarked on a transformative journey towards creating spaces for women to actively participate in politics and governance, challenging the status quo of male-dominated leadership.
In a bold move that sent ripples throughout the political landscape of Gombe State, Governor Yahaya’s administration appointed three female commissioners and numerous Special Advisers, Chairpersons of Boards and Commissions, as well as heads of key government agencies and departments during his first term. This marked a significant departure from tradition, where women were often relegated to peripheral roles in governance. Same scenario is playing out in his second term with women manning key positions in governance. From the Judiciary to the legislature, the Executive Council, Special Advisers, Civil Service and Teachers Service Commissions, to the Board of Internal Revenue Service, Permanent Secretaries among others, women are shining all over in Gombe.
Governor Yahaya’s commitment to gender mainstreaming was underscored by his administration’s facilitation of the first elected female Local Government chairperson in the state. Additionally, the election of female councillors in each
Local Government Area further exemplified the strides made towards inclusive representation under his leadership.
The groundbreaking efforts of Governor Inuwa did not go unnoticed, as they garnered widespread acclaim and commendation from various organizations advocating for greater women’s participation in politics. The Federal Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, recognizing his commitment to women empowerment bestowed upon him the prestigious “He for She” medal, a symbol of his dedication to the cause.
Governor Yahaya’s commitment to women support was further demonstrated in the recently conducted Local Government Primaries of his party, the All Progressive Congress (APC) in the state. By facilitating the emergence of two women as flag bearers for the forthcoming Local Government Elections, Governor Yahaya once again affirmed his status as a champion of women’s rights and a catalyst for change.
It is evident that his administration has remained steadfast and dedicated to empowering women to achieve their goals and dreams through the provision of access to financial resources, entrepreneurship training, and opportunities for skills development as key measures in supporting women’s advancement.
As he continues to encourage the advancement of women’s rights, Governor Yahaya’s legacy as a “He for She” governor will undoubtedly endure, inspiring future generations to strive for a more just world.