The Federation of Muslim Women’s Associations in Nigeria (FOMWAN) has elected Fadimatu Hamza as its new National Amirah (President), during its 40th anniversary and National Convention held in Kaduna on Saturday. The election concluded a four-day gathering of members from across Nigeria.

Mrs. Hamza, who hails from Plateau State, succeeds Rafiah Sanni of Oyo State, who served as the 10th National Amirah for four years. Sanni’s tenure was marked by advocacy for education, health, and social empowerment initiatives for Muslim women nationwide.

Addressing members after her election, Mrs. Hamza pledged to continue and expand the organisation’s mission. “We are honoured to lead this great organisation at this critical juncture. We pledge to build on the foundations laid by our predecessors and work towards achieving FOMWAN’s vision of leadership of Muslim women and promoting their welfare,” she said.

Zeenat Ismikhai from Edo State will serve as Deputy National Amirah, supporting Mrs. Hamza during her two-year tenure. Together, they aim to strengthen FOMWAN’s initiatives in education, economic empowerment, health, and social welfare for women and youth, both within Nigeria and internationally.

The new leadership team also includes elected officers for positions such as Secretary-General, Financial Secretary, Da’awah/Welfare Officer, Legal Adviser, and Public Relations Officer. State Amirahs (State Presidents) automatically become members of the National Executive Council, ensuring representation from across Nigeria.

Founded in October 1985, FOMWAN is a faith-based, non-profit, and non-governmental organisation dedicated to the dissemination of Islamic teachings and the empowerment of Muslim women. Over its four decades of existence, it has served as a civil society umbrella body for Muslim women, providing education, advocacy, and community support initiatives.

The 40th anniversary convention provided a platform not only for the election but also for reflection on FOMWAN’s achievements and strategies to expand its impact. Members emphasized the need for stronger programs targeting education, health, economic empowerment, and international collaboration for Muslim women.

Mrs. Hamza’s leadership comes at a time when FOMWAN seeks to consolidate its influence and enhance its role in advancing the welfare and leadership of Muslim women across Nigeria.