Jigawa Assembly Charts New Course with Election of First Female Speaker | Newskeeper

Jigawa Pro-tem Speaker, Jamila Aliyu Abdulkadir.

By Salisu K Ismail 

The Jigawa State House of Assembly commemorated the 2024 International Day of the Girl Child with a special plenary session, where Speaker Haruna Aliyu Dangyatin yielded his seat to 15-year-old Jamila Aliyu Abdulkadir, an SS3 student from Dutse Model International School.

Jamila acted as the Pro-tem Speaker, leading the session that included female students from three selected secondary schools in the state capital: Dutse Model International School, Dutse Capital School, and Elpee International School.

It's recalled that, The International Day of the Girl Child, observed annually on October 11, focuses on education, healthcare, and advocating for girls' rights.

This year's theme, "Girls' Vision for the Future," emphasizes the need for urgent action and persistent hope driven by girls' voices.

In his remark, the Speaker, Jigawa State House of Assembly, Hon. Haruna Aliyu Dangyatin, highlighted the Assembly's efforts to empower women and inspire hope in the Girl Child, addressing the challenge of out-of-school children in the state. 

He noted that the 7th Assembly passed the Jigawa State Child Protection Act in 2021, safeguarding children's rights and prioritizing access to health and education.

Dangyatin emphasized the importance of educating the Girl Child, citing the Hadith of Prophet Muhammad (SAW), which declares seeking knowledge obligatory for every Muslim, regardless of gender.

"Despite challenges, the state has recorded successes, including the election of the first female Vice-Chairperson for Malam-Madori Local Government Area and the appointment of women as Judges, Magistrates, Commissioners, and Academicians," he declared.

Speaking while acting on the seat, The Pro-tem Speaker, Jamila, urged the legislative and executive arms to address the problems confronting the Girl Child, acknowledging the state government's gesture of providing free education but emphasizing the need for employment opportunities.

Esther Maiyaki, representing the Buji state constituency, stressed the potential of girls in the healthcare and education system.

Newskeeper learned that, The event aimed to inspire and empower girls, encouraging them to seek role models and strive for greater heights in their chosen endeavors.