Prof Rabia Sa’id
Rabia Sa’id is a distinguished academic and dedicated community leader, Professor Sa’id brings a wealth of expertise, passion, and advocacy to this role. With a background in Atmospheric Physics and Dynamics, Professor Sa’id holds a BSc., MSc., and PhD from Bayero University, Kano, and an additional MSc in Environment and Development from the University of Reading, UK. Her academic journey has been defined by a focus on sustainable development, climate change, and renewable energy, with specific research on waste-to-wealth initiatives and nuclear nonproliferation, security, and safeguards. In 2021, she received the CRDF Global Grant for her work in building networks for women in nuclear security and nonproliferation, and she currently serves as the Lead Coordinator of WCAPS-NG (Women of Color Advancing Peace, Security & Conflict Transformation Nigeria).
Professor Sa’id is not only a Professor of Atmospheric Physics and Research Fellow at the Center for Renewable Energy and Sustainability Transitions (CREST) at Bayero University, but she is also an experienced lecturer and consultant, with notable contributions in advocacy for girls in STEM and girls’ rights issues. Her dedication to empowering women in science and education extends through her active membership in the Muslim Sisters Organization (MSO), where she once served as the Ameerah of the Kano Branch, as well as the Sisters Saving for Paradise (SISAP) initiative.
Professor Rabia Sa’id’s profound commitment to both her academic field and her community makes her the ideal choice to lead us through this inaugural event, guiding our exploration of the significant contributions of Muslim women throughout history.
Hajiya Mutia Ahmad
Hajiya Mutia Ahmad, is a distinguished legal expert specializing in technology law, data protection, and policy development, brings with her a profound perspective on the balance between tradition and progress. Her academic and professional background—including an LL.M. in Technology, Law, and Policy from Georgetown University Law Center and roles in both the private and public sectors in Ghana—equips her uniquely to discuss how the principles embodied by Nana Khadija remain powerful and relevant today.
Nana Khadija bint Khuwaylid, known for her intelligence, strength in commerce, and unwavering support of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), stands as a timeless role model for Muslim women. In her discussion, Hajiya Mutia will reflect on Nana Khadija’s pioneering role as a businesswoman and her impact on society, exploring how these qualities resonate with the aspirations of Muslim women in modern times—particularly in leadership, entrepreneurship, and societal influence.
Hajiya Mutia’s insights will shed light on how contemporary Muslim women can embody Nana Khadija’s courage, integrity, and resilience as they navigate their own journeys in diverse fields. Her talk promises to be an inspiring call to embrace both faith and forward-thinking ambition, empowering the present generation of Muslim women to make impactful contributions in today’s world.
Join us in welcoming Hajiya Mutia Ahmad as she shares the profound legacy of Nana Khadija bint Khuwaylid and its relevance to Muslim women everywhere.
Hajiya Suwaiba Abdullahi,
Hajiya Suwaiba Bello Abdullahi, is a distinguished educationist and chief lecturer in the Economics Department at the Shehu Shagari College of Education, Sokoto, will be sharing her expertise on the legacy of Nana Fatima al-Fihriyya, the visionary founder of the world’s oldest university.
With nearly two decades in the academia, Hajiya Abdullahi holds a Master’s degree in Economics and is currently pursuing her Ph.D. at the Usman Danfodiyo University. Her extensive experience includes multiple publications that have enriched the field of economics education. Known for her dedication, candor, and commitment to excellence, Prof. Abdullahi has consistently advanced educational goals and inspired her students to reach their full potential.
As she delves into the life and contributions of Nana Fatima al-Fihriyya at this special event, Hajiya Abdullahi will illuminate the enduring impact of pioneering Muslim women on modern education and inspire participants to continue this legacy of knowledge and empowerment.
Dr. Aishatu Umar Maigari
Dr. Aishatu Umar Maigari, is the Honourable Commissioner of Education for Gombe State, brings a wealth of experience and a remarkable track record in education and public service, making her an inspiring figure for this significant event.
Dr. Maigari’s distinguished career spans various high-profile roles, including her prior position as the Honourable Commissioner of Science, Technology, and Innovation for Gombe State, and her current academic role as an Associate Professor of Analytical Chemistry at the Federal University, Kashere. She also serves as an Adjunct Professor of Chemistry at North Eastern University, Gombe, and has risen through academia, with over 35 research publications in reputable journals.
As a Fellow of the Chemical Society of Nigeria and a member of the Institute of Chartered Chemists of Nigeria, Dr. Maigari’s contributions extend beyond education into advocacy for rural youth and female empowerment. Her involvement as a Focal Person for UNICEF’s FTTSS program has supported hundreds of rural girls to pursue teaching, fostering educational opportunities for underprivileged communities.
In her role as keynote speaker, Dr. Maigari will share her insights on the impact of Muslim women in history, shedding light on their legacy and relevance in today’s society. Her presence is not only a celebration of past achievements but a powerful inspiration for future generations of women leaders.
Islamic Finance Industry Still Facing Shortages of Scholars, Trained Professionals
The Islamic finance industry has grown rapidly over the past few decades, evolving from a niche market into a global phenomenon with assets exceeding $3 trillion. Despite its remarkable growth, the industry continues to struggle with a critical issue: a shortage of qualified scholars and trained professionals. This talent gap poses a significant challenge to the sustainability and further expansion of the sector.
This article explores the reasons behind the shortage, its impact on the industry, and potential solutions to address the gap. We will also discuss the opportunities this situation presents for aspiring professionals and the steps needed to build a more robust talent pipeline in Islamic finance.
Current State of the Islamic Finance Industry
Islamic finance refers to financial activities that comply with Shariah (Islamic law), which prohibits interest (riba), excessive uncertainty (gharar), and investments in businesses considered haram (forbidden), such as alcohol and gambling. The industry encompasses various segments, including Islamic banking, Takaful (Islamic insurance), Sukuk (Islamic bonds), and Islamic funds.
The sector’s assets are expected to grow significantly, driven by the increasing demand for ethical finance and the expansion of Islamic finance markets in countries like Malaysia, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. However, to sustain this growth, the industry requires a steady supply of scholars and professionals who can navigate the complexities of Sharia-compliant finance. Read more>>
Lifting the Bottom Billion: Will It Work This Time?
Imagine being part of a billion people stuck in a cycle of extreme poverty—unable to break free due to war, corruption, lack of education, and isolation from global markets. These individuals make up what economist Paul Collier famously termed the “Bottom Billion.” Despite countless international efforts to address their struggles, many remain trapped in some of the most challenging conditions on earth, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. With new strategies and technologies emerging, the big question is: Will it work this time? In this article, we’ll dive into the latest global initiatives and the hurdles still standing in the way of lifting the Bottom Billion out of poverty once and for all.
Understanding the Bottom Billion Crisis
For decades, poverty reduction efforts have centered on providing aid, improving infrastructure, and addressing public health issues. However, the situation for the Bottom Billion is complex and often resistant to traditional development strategies. According to Collier, these individuals are caught in one or more of four traps: conflict, natural resource dependence, landlocked countries with bad neighbors, and poor governance. These traps create cyclical poverty that is difficult to escape.
Recent data shows that while global poverty rates have decreased—thanks to economic growth in places like China and India—the situation for the Bottom Billion remains unchanged in many regions. Sub-Saharan Africa, for instance, continues to struggle with high poverty rates, despite decades of international aid. The challenge is not just about money; it’s about addressing the root causes that keep these populations poor. Read more>>
