By: John Bassey, Zamfara.

The Zamfara State Government has reiterated its unwavering commitment to empowering women and promoting gender equity across the state.

This was disclosed by the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Dr. Aisha M.Z. Anka, during a women’s dialogue session organized by the International Organization for Migration (IOM) to commemorate International Women’s Day. The event took place today Wednesday 18th March 2026 at Karma Hotel in Gusau, the state capital.

Dr. Anka, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Alhaji Garba Aliyu Gayari, reaffirmed the government’s dedication to women’s empowerment through education, protection, and improved wellbeing.

She emphasized the importance of engaging women in small-scale enterprises as a pathway to economic independence and family stability.

Highlighting recent initiatives, she noted that skills acquisition programmes conducted across the fourteen local government areas have significantly benefited women, strengthening family livelihoods and promoting peaceful coexistence in communities.

The Commissioner further stated that the administration of Governor Dauda Lawal is prioritizing human capital development and economic growth, with particular focus on women and vulnerable groups.

In a statement by Comrade Suleiman Aliyu Gusau, Information Officer Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, Zamfara State, she added that empowerment programmes under the Office of the First Lady, Hajiya Huriyya Dauda Lawal, have positively impacted women, persons living with disabilities, and other vulnerable
groups.

Dr. Aisha MZ Anka stressed that investing in women is not an act of charity but a strategic driver of economic growth for both the state and the nation. She urged women to avoid involvement in conflicts and instead embrace opportunities that contribute to their personal and economic development.

Also speaking at the event, Aisha Abdu Gusau encouraged women to pursue both Western and Islamic education and to engage in creative small-scale businesses to support their families economically.

Earlier, the Project Assistant of IOM, Comrade Ahmad Buba, stated that the initiative aims to support the Zamfara State Ministry of Women Affairs in promoting and protecting women, particularly at the grassroots level. He explained that the dialogue session provided a platform for women to share experiences and contribute ideas that foster peace and economic development.

In her vote of thanks, the Director of Women Affairs, Hajiya Hajara Sani Abubakar, expressed appreciation to the state government for its sustained commitment to women’s wellbeing. She described women as key drivers of economic growth, noting their active participation in market activities.
She also urged women to uphold integrity and continue their vital role in instilling good moral values in children.

The Director commended the efforts of the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and other independent partners collaborating with the Ministry for their continued support in enabling it to effectively deliver its core responsibilities across the state.

Participants from various partner organizations called on women to actively contribute to positive societal development and avoid being used in activities that undermine peace and security.

In his remarks, a traditional leader Marafan Madawaki District, Alhaji Siraj, commended the Ministry and its partners for organizing the dialogue. He assured continued support from traditional institutions in promoting women-focused programmes in line with cultural values.

The event witnessed active participation from directors of the Ministry of Women Affairs and other stakeholders, contributing to a vibrant and impactful session.