By Usman Usman Garba
The Kano State Commissioner for Women Affairs, Children and Disabled, Hajiya Amina Abdullahi Sani, has highlighted the achievements of her ministry over the past three years, attributing its successes to the support and confidence reposed in her by Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf.
Speaking during an interview on the occasion of Governor Yusuf’s third anniversary in office, the commissioner congratulated the governor on his achievements and prayed for Allah’s continued guidance and protection over his administration.
“I congratulate Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf on his third anniversary in office. May Allah continue to guide and strengthen him in serving the people of Kano State,” she said.
The commissioner noted that she had served in different capacities under the administration before her appointment as Commissioner for Women Affairs, including positions in the Ministry of Special Duties and humanitarian-related agencies.
She described her appointment as a mark of trust and confidence from the governor, adding that the support she receives has enabled her ministry to deliver on its mandate.
According to her, upon assuming office, she met several challenges, particularly in coordinating activities with development partners and reforming critical sectors within the ministry.
“We engaged with various development organizations and partners to reposition the ministry. Through these collaborations, we strengthened efforts against child abuse, child labour, school dropouts, and other social vices affecting women and children in Kano State,” she explained.
The commissioner stated that the ministry has intensified enforcement of child protection laws, leading to actions against individuals found guilty of child maltreatment and abuse.
She further disclosed that special attention has been given to persons with disabilities, noting that the state government is working towards creating opportunities that will enable them to become self-reliant and contribute meaningfully to society.
She praised Governor Yusuf for his compassion toward vulnerable children, citing the special programmes and activities organized for children at the Nasarawa Children’s Home.
Speaking on facilities under the ministry, Hajiya Amina said eight institutions currently operate under its supervision, including the Nasarawa Children’s Home, Remand Home, Vesico Vaginal Fistula (VVF) Centre for women suffering from fistula, rehabilitation centres, and the Children’s Home located at Murtala Muhammad Specialist Hospital.
Tackling Child Trafficking and Religious Conversion.
The commissioner expressed concern over cases of child trafficking and the movement of vulnerable children to other states, where some are allegedly exploited and exposed to religious conversion.
She explained that the ministry has carried out interventions in several areas, including Sabon Gari, where authorities discovered cases involving the exploitation of children, unwanted pregnancies, illegal adoption practices, and attempts to influence children’s religious beliefs.
According to her, some affected children were rescued and accommodated at the Nasarawa Children’s Home, where they continue to receive care and support.
She also lamented the growing problem of child labour and child trafficking, stressing that poverty remains a major factor pushing some parents to give out their children for labour and other forms of exploitation.
The commissioner further revealed that the ministry regularly receives persons with disabilities and vulnerable individuals brought into Kano from other states, including the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.
She noted that after proper screening, those found not to be indigenes of Kano are returned to their respective states, while vulnerable children are reunited with their families where possible.
She added that the government also empowers parents and guardians of abandoned or vulnerable children and supports their enrollment in schools to secure a better future.
On reforms introduced since assuming office, the commissioner attributed improvements in staff performance to discipline, commitment and leadership by example.
“The way leaders manage their organizations influences the attitude of their workers.
“I often remain in the office until 8 p.m., and this has encouraged staff members to be more dedicated, punctual and committed to their responsibilities,” she said.
She added that maintaining cordial relationships with staff and promoting teamwork have significantly improved productivity within the ministry.
The commissioner has lastl called on parents across Kano State to pay closer attention to the upbringing of their children by showing them love, care and proper guidance.
She urged parents to communicate regularly with their children, understand their challenges and provide them with quality education and moral upbringing.
“Parents should pray for their children, guide them properly and show them compassion.
“This is the foundation for raising responsible and productive members of society,” she said.
Hajiya Amina concluded by expressing gratitude to Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf for the trust and confidence he has continued to place in her, assuring the people of Kano that the ministry would remain committed to protecting women, children and other vulnerable groups in the state.
