.… Strongly Condemns Genocide In Gaza
Being part of the Press Conference ushering in the 40th Anniversary of FOMWAN and its International Conference which begins Thursday 21st August in Kaduna, North West Nigeria
“In the Name of Allah, the Most Beneficent, the Most Merciful
Distinguished members of the Board of Trustees, our esteemed National Naibah Amirah. Dr. Sumayyah Hamza; National Secretary, Dr. Monsurah Musa; members of the National Executive Council; Zonal Coordinators; Chairpersons of Committees, State Amirahs, especially our gracious host, Hajia Nalisat Musa Isa: affiliate Amirahs; and all FOMWAN members here present.
Esteemed Gentlemen and Esteemed Ladies of the Press, As-Salaamu ‘Alaykum Wa Ralumatullaahi wa Barakaatuhu.
On behalf of the Board of Trustees, ably led by Her Excellency, Alhaja Lateefah Modupeola Okunnu, the National Executive Council, and our members across Nigeria and abroad, I warmly welcome you to this Press Conference on the 20th of August, 2025. marking the 40th Anniversary of the Federation of Muslim Women’s Associations in Nigeria (FOMWAN)-and our International Conference with the Theme:
“Empowering Muslim Women: Climate Resilience, Sustainability, and Community Development – Celebrating FOMWAN’s Achievements”
This theme reflects FOMWAN’s recognition that Empowering Women today means equipping them to meet the challenges of tomorrow. It speaks to our responsibility as Muslim Women to safeguard our environment, strengthen our communities, and ensure that development is both inclusive and sustainable. It is a call to action-based on evergreen Islamic Values-to Combine Faith, Knowledge, and Practical Solutions in building a Resilient Future for the generations to come.
FOMWAN, the umbrella body for Muslim Women’s Organisations in Nigeria, was founded in 1985. Since inception, it has stood as a Unified, Credible Voice on all matters concerning Women, Children, and the Communities that nurture them. Our work rests on live foundational pillars:
1. Da’awah The Propagation of Islam in its completeness.
2. Education-Both Islamic and Western, which has inspired the establishment of nearly 3,000 basic schools in local government arcas where FOMWAN is present.
3. Community Development strengthening societal structures through service and advocacy.
Healthcare Initiatives Promoting Accessible, Alfordable, and Quality Health for Women and Children.
5. Capacity Building – equipping women and youth with skills to thrive in modern society without compromising their values.
Today, FOMWAN is active in all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja with presence in over 700 of Nigeria’s 771 Local Government Areas. Our passion for Accessible, Quality Education is taking us further: the Oyo State Chapter is building a School of Nursing in Ibadan, and plans for FOMWAN University are in Progress, Bi-idhnillaah.
This year’s Conference will welcome delegates from the UK, US, and various African Nations, Strengthening Unity and Fostering Global Collaboration.
Tomorrow, Thursday, 21st August, marks our formal opening ceremony. We warmly invite the media to cover and amplify the vision, aims, and objectives behind this year’s theme.
We express profound gratitude to His Excellency, Governor Uba Sani, and the gracious people of Kaduna State for their warm hospitality. We have experienced a peaceful, secure, and welcoming atmosphere, a stark contrast to the apprehensions of years past. May Allah, in His Mercy and Majesty, continue to guide and protect our brother, the Governor, granting him wisdom, strength, and increasing knowledge.
FOMWAN at 10 is beyond just a celebration of years. It is a celebration of service. faith, resilience, and a commitment to building communities where women and children can thrive. In light of this, we cannot remain silent in the face of the ongoing humanitarian tragedy in Gaza. For months, the world has watched with deep sorrow as innocent lives; women, children, the elderly, and even humanitarian workers and journalists, have been cut short in relentless attacks and bombings. Homes, schools, hospitals, and places of worship have been destroyed, leaving families in despair and communities shattered.
As an organisation founded on faith, justice, and compassion, FOMWAN strongly condemns these atrocities and stands firmly with the oppressed people of Palestine facing genocide. We frown at what is happening there, particularly the indiscriminate killings of women, children, and journalists, acts that violate every standard of humanity and international law. We call for global solidarity, for an end to the bloodshed, and for urgent humanitarian support to restore dignity and hope to those who suffer.
Above all, we turn to Allah, the Most Just and the All-Merciful, praying that He grants relief to the people of Gaza, patience to the bereaved, healing to the wounded, and liberation to the oppressed.
Thank you.
Rafiah Idowu Sanni (Mrs) 10th National Amirah, FOMWAN
