Muslim women in Nigeria cry out over abductions, poverty

The Federation of Muslim Women Associations in Nigeria, FOMWAN, has raised the alarm over the level of insecurity across the country.

They lamented that abductions and displacement have increased poverty and humanitarian crises among women and children in several communities.

The Muslim women, who expressed the concern in Umuahia, Abia State, after their 41st National Conference, said that women and children were suffering from abuse and loss of livelihoods.

A communique issued after the conference was signed by the National President, Sumaye Fadimatu Hamza, the National Secretary, Zainab Talatu Ahmed and the National Public Relations Officer, Kulu Kande Ibrahim.

It was attended by participants from different states of the federation.
The Muslim women blamed persistent gaps in girls’ education, particularly among poor, displaced and underserved communities, for limiting their future opportunities and contributions to national development.

FOMWAN lamented the continued religious and gender discrimination experienced by Muslim women and girls in exercising their legitimate religious identity.

The group further lamented the alleged challenges faced by Muslim women in minority communities, particularly in the South-East and South-South states, where it said there are limited Islamic support structures, social isolation, discrimination and difficulties in maintaining their religious identity.

The association, however, resolved to increase the participation of Muslim women in peace-building, interfaith dialogue, conflict prevention, mediation, civic engagement and community development.

It further vowed to promote authentic Islamic teachings on the dignity, rights and responsibilities of women, as well as work with schools, community leaders and families to distinguish Islamic teachings from harmful cultural practices.