Philanthropist and humanitarian advocate Hajiya Zubaida Umar Dangiwa, who also serves as the Managing Director of the National Emergency Management Agency, has launched a wide-reaching empowerment programme aimed at improving livelihoods, economic independence and self-reliance among widows and vulnerable groups. The nine-day training took place from Friday, November 14 to November 22, 2025, at Government Secondary School Junju in Birnin-Kebbi, attracting a large turnout of beneficiaries, community leaders and scholars.
The initiative focused on skills development in household businesses, vocational trades and small-scale business management. According to organisers, the programme was structured to give participants practical knowledge they can use to start or grow small businesses within their communities.
Speaking at the ceremony, Zubaida Waziri, Chief Executive Officer of the Zubaida Umar Dangiwa Charity Organisation, said the programme was created to “uplift hardworking widows that need assistance to change their lives.” She explained that the goal was not only to provide tools but also to strengthen the confidence and long-term abilities of the beneficiaries. “Empowerment is not just about giving tools. It’s about giving people the confidence, skills, and opportunity to build a better future for themselves and their families,” she said.
Beneficiaries expressed their appreciation, especially as the training and start-up support came during a period of rising economic challenges. One of the recipients, Malama Suwaiba Attahiru, who received start-up cash, said the support would help her begin a liquid-soap, air-freshener and locally homemade spaghetti business from home. “This will change my life. I now have the means to earn income and support my children,” she said.
In his remarks, the Waziri of Gwandu, Alhaji Abdullahi Umar Waziri, praised Dangiwa’s dedication to improving the lives of widows, describing the effort as an example of private-driven social intervention. “Her work sets a standard for how private citizens can drive social change,” he noted.
The empowerment programme is expected to continue in phases across various local government areas, targeting widows, out-of-school girls and small-business starters. Zubaida Waziri said follow-up and monitoring will be carried out to ensure that beneficiaries make effective use of the start-up cash.
