By Aliyu Usman, Birnin Kebbi
The celebration of the 3rd Anniversary and the launch of a support fund for the Nasara Women Development Foundation—founded by Hajiya Nasare Zainab Nasir Idris, wife of Kebbi State Governor, Dr. Nasir Idris (Kauran Gwandu)—held recently at the Convocation Square of Waziri Umaru Federal Polytechnic, Birnin Kebbi, and attracted political associates, business leaders, academics, religious figures, and local and international development partners.
Delivering the opening remarks, the State Coordinator of the foundation, Alhaji Abdulrasheed Bala, gave a comprehensive overview of its journey, mission, and milestones. He stated that the foundation focuses on women empowerment, girl-child and youth education, skill acquisition, wealth creation, job opportunities, and healthcare delivery.
So far, over 10,000 young entrepreneurs have been supported with capital or complete business start-up packages, while more than 5,000 vulnerable individuals have benefitted from free medical services, including surgeries and medication for complex health issues.
In the education sector, beneficiaries are enrolled at various levels—primary, secondary, Islamiya, and tertiary institutions—under the foundation’s sponsorship. The foundation has also constructed and renovated Islamiya school classroom blocks and provided potable water sources to numerous communities.
Alhaji Bala proudly revealed that many of these humanitarian feats were initially funded solely by Hajiya Nasare through her personal resources before receiving support from well-meaning individuals and organisations.
“Her Divine Wisdom Shaped My Political Journey” — Governor Idris
Taking the stage, Governor Nasir Idris made a profound revelation, attributing much of his political success to the divine wisdom and humanitarian foresight of his wife, Hajiya Nasare.
“In the days when I was deeply involved with the Nigerian Labour Congress and philanthropy in Kebbi communities, Hajiya Nasare had already gone beyond my imagination in executing humanitarian projects. She created synergy with my efforts without me even realising it,” the Governor said.
He admitted that the successes of the Nasara Foundation and the goodwill it generated across communities significantly boosted his political capital, helping pave the way for his successful bid to become Governor.
Hajiya Nasare: “Thank You for Enduring My Travels and Sacrifices”
In her heartfelt remarks, Hajiya Nasare thanked Almighty Allah and expressed deep appreciation to her husband for his patience, tolerance, and unwavering moral and emotional support, especially during her frequent travels for advocacy.
She also acknowledged the contributions of international partners including the Tulsi Chanrai Foundation, UFUK Dialogue, Tulip International School, and the United States Embassy in Nigeria, all of whom have either partnered or are in talks with the foundation for collaborative interventions.
Hajiya Nasare urged her management team to sustain their dedication and commitment, emphasizing that their efforts are crucial to the continued success of the foundation’s goals.
₦302 Million and Vehicles Raised at Launch
The Chief Launcher of the event, Hon. Bello Kaoje (Kogunan Gwandu), announced that the foundation had raised ₦302 million in donations and pledges, along with four vehicles to support its ongoing programmes.
Royal and Academic Recognition
In recognition of her role in advancing girl-child education, the Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, appointed Hajiya Nasare as the North-West Ambassador of Girl Child Education during the recent National Qur’anic Recitation Competition hosted by the Kebbi State Government.
In a similar vein, the Centre for Islamic Studies at Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto, conferred upon her the distinguished title of Khadimatul Qur’an (Servant of the Qur’an), acknowledging her dedication to Islamic education and social development.
