Hajiya Hadiza Abdulwahab’s story begins in Dutse, Jigawa state, where she witnessed the struggles experienced by women, children, and other vulnerable members of her community health care services, social support, gender and human rights services. In 2019, she took the initiative to address these needs by officially registering the HASNUR Initiative for Women and Youth Development as a community-based organization (CBO). Her aim was to contribute to a society where citizens are empowered to become self-reliant.

The HASNUR Initiative focuses on advancing the rights of vulnerable groups, particularly women and youth, supporting health-seeking behaviour and combating HIV/AIDS. Through the KP CARE 1 project, funded by USAID and implemented by Heartland Alliance LTD/GTE in Jigawa state, Hajiya, as the Executive Director of HASNUR, and her team have continuously received capacity building on community program interventions towards optimization of available health and social services. This training facilitated interactions with various stakeholders, including government officials, religious and community leaders, health workers, and KP groups, laying the groundwork for wider recognition and support across community stakeholders, government institutions, Agencies and other development partners.

The impact of their work is felt across 27 Local Government Areas of the State where they have uplifted over 100 women by providing them with skills and empowering them to become skilled artisans. These women have now become contributors to their families’ welfare and active participants in their local communities.

Beyond empowering women, Hajiya Hadiza also tackled the pressing issue of HIV/AIDS in Jigawa State. Through a sustained local approach to intervention focused on prevention and support, HASNUR Initiative became a beacon of hope for those infected or affected by HIV/AIDS, particularly female sex workers and people who use and inject drugs. The organization’s efforts have been vital in reducing the transmission of new HIV and ensuring access to proper healthcare and resources for those affected.

As a result of her impactful work, Hajiya Hadiza has been appointed the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, a testament to her dedication and recognition of her contributions to the state’s HIV response. In her new role, she continues to champion the rights of women and vulnerable groups in Jigawa State, using her experience from running HASNUR Initiative and her passion for creating lasting change.

Figure 4-6: HASNUR Initiative conducting Community Mobilization & support for victims of flooding. Ward Level Economic Empowerment Project skills training for women.

Hajiya Hadiza’s journey from a community leader to Commissioner exemplifies the transformative power of compassion, determination, and collaboration. Her rise to prominence is a testament to unwavering determination, visionary leadership, and a relentless pursuit of social change.