The Federation of Muslim Women’s Associations in Nigeria (FOMWAN) has kicked off activities marking its 40th anniversary and international conference in Kaduna, with a strong message of women’s empowerment, climate resilience, and solidarity with oppressed communities worldwide.
At a press briefing on Wednesday, the National Amirah of FOMWAN, Rafiah Idowu Sanni, welcomed members, partners, and the media to the milestone celebration, themed: “Empowering Muslim Women: Climate Resilience, Sustainability, and Community Development – Celebrating FOMWAN’s Achievements.”
She said the theme underscored the urgent need for women to be equipped with tools and knowledge to face future challenges while drawing inspiration from Islamic values to build sustainable and resilient societies.
Founded in 1985, FOMWAN has grown into a formidable umbrella body for Muslim women’s organisations across Nigeria.
Over the years, it has focused on five key pillars: Da’awah (propagation of Islam), education, community development, healthcare, and capacity building.
According to Rafiah Sanni, the association has established nearly 3,000 basic schools in underserved communities and continues to champion accessible, quality education.
She said plans for a FOMWAN University are already underway, alongside the Oyo State chapter’s ongoing School of Nursing project in Ibadan.
Today, FOMWAN is active in all 36 states and the FCT, with presence in over 700 local government areas.
The anniversary conference is expected to draw participants from the UK, US, and several African countries, reinforcing global collaboration and unity among Muslim women.
Rafiah Sanni expressed gratitude to Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, and the people of Kaduna for their warm hospitality and peaceful atmosphere.
“We have experienced a welcoming environment that dispels past apprehensions,” she said, praying for continued peace and progress in the state.
The FOMWAN leader also used the platform to decry the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, describing it as “a genocide against women, children, the elderly, and even humanitarian workers.” She condemned the destruction of homes, schools, hospitals, and places of worship, calling on the international community to act urgently.
“As an organisation founded on faith, justice, and compassion, FOMWAN strongly condemns these atrocities and stands firmly with the oppressed people of Palestine,” Rafiah Sanni declared.
“We call for global solidarity, an end to the bloodshed, and urgent humanitarian support to restore dignity and hope to those who suffer.”
The formal opening ceremony of the conference holds Thursday, August 21, in Kaduna, with high-profile guests and delegates expected in attendance.
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