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In the heart of Nigeria, the North is home to women of remarkable nature who are constantly thriving in their respective fields and personal lives. Northern women are known to be passionate and have the warmth of midnight sun in their hearts. They are also known for being the epitome of strength. From trailblazing entrepreneurs to passionate activists leaving an incredible mark on their communities and beyond, northern women radiate determination and compassion that illuminate the path to progress, proving that the strength of the North lies in the hands of the remarkable women who call it home.
Out of the numerous powerful and inspirational women from Northern Nigeria, we have selected a list of a few who have had a major impact in their respective fields. Keep reading to know more about these amazing women and also learn from their inspiring journeys.

Name: Fatima Babakura
Nationality: Nigerian
Sector: Entrepreneur

Fatima Babakura, driven by her passion for sketching designs, founded and became the creative director of Timabee, a luxury accessory brand. Within three years of its inception, Timabee was recognized as the best fashion brand of the year. Fatima's accomplishments were further celebrated when she was listed among 22 women redefining luxury in Africa by the Lionesses of Africa group and received the WEF "Iconic Woman" award in 2017. Motivated by her desire to empower women and girls, Fatima is dedicated to growing Timabee, recognising the potential it holds for creating job opportunities, particularly in Africa. In addition to Timabee, she is also the co-founder of Signature Boutique in Canada, a multi-brand boutique showcasing the works of African-based designers around the world. Fatima's zest for life extends beyond her entrepreneurial endeavors. She relishes cooking, exploring new destinations, and sharing her inspiring journey with others.

Name: A.M.B Rahma Yakolo indimi
Nationality: Nigerian
Sector: Businesswoman

A.M.B Rahma Yakolo Indimi, also known as Rahama Indimi, is a Nigerian businesswoman and philanthropist. She is the founder and CEO of the Yakolo Indimi Foundation. Yakolo Indimi is a highly accomplished businesswoman with a wealth of experience in the energy sector. She served as a director at Oriental Energy Resources Limited for 20 years, and is currently a director at Oriental OML 115. In addition to her business acumen, Yakolo Indimi is also a passionate philanthropist. She founded the Yakolo Indimi Foundation with the focus of fighting poverty, eradicating hunger, delivering humanitarian assistance, and providing health services. The foundation has provided funds and relief material to people affected by the Boko Haram insurgency in Borno State.

In recognition of her outstanding contributions to society, Yakolo Indimi was awarded the World Award for SDG Achievement in 2019. This award is given to individuals and organizations who have made significant contributions to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals. Yakolo Indimi is a role model for women in business and philanthropy. She is a shining example of what can be achieved through hard work, dedication, and a commitment to making a difference in the world.

Name: Maryam LemuNationality: Nigeria Sector: Motivational Speaker & Relationship Consultant
Maryam Lemu is a skilled seminar/workshop facilitator in addition to being an accomplished worldwide speaker with more than three decades of professional experience. She is currently the Head of Administration and Resource Management in New Horizons College Minna's. She is also a director of ProStart Consultants, a Nigerian capacity-building consulting company. Mrs Lemu has travelled all over the world to provide seminars for various organisations on a variety of subjects, such as leadership, team building, and personal development. Her audience benefits from her love for character development and human development, which has a good effect on both work and personal life by assisting them in finding a sense of direction and purpose in life. Also, she delivers engaging public talks on marital and premarital topics and particularly enjoys relationship coaching and counseling. She is a known face with regular television appearances in Nigeria. She is the host of the popular talk show Sisterly on Alif TV and the Ramadan show on NTA. She also produces YouTube video series and has a large social media following as well. Maryam Lemu has a broad range of expertise, including public speaking, mentoring and coaching, leadership, management, communication, and negotiation, to name a few.She also offers consultancy services to a private school due to her strong commitment to character development, social responsibility, and a values-driven approach.

Name: Hadiza Yar'adua TuggarSector: Multitalented, Corporate Business Executive and Seasoned educationistNationality: Nigeria
Hadiza Yar’adua Tuggar is an ex-banker and the Founder of Woodentods International School which was founded in 2009. She is a highly enthusiastic multitalented, multifaceted corporate business executive and seasoned educationist. She has obtained prominent academic and professional experiences which have aptly equipped her with a comprehensive managerial portfolio and a track record of impact and organizational transformation.
She has accomplished and built her strength as an educational reformer in four core competencies including, Education Administration and Policy Formulation, Institution Planning and Development, Curriculum Formulation and Development, as well as Special Educational Needs Advocacy. She is an educational administrator, business strategist, policy reform advocate, public speaker, mentor, facilitator and collaborator of several educational reform and development projects. Hadiza has bagged several certifications which include a General and Pediatric First Aid Certification from Sophie Booths Consulting, an Executive Strategy Certification from the Educators Leadership Summit, a Diploma in Business Operation and Business Process Engineering from Business Study Group, a Certification in School Development and Transformation from Cambridge International Education. She is currently undergoing a Coaching Certification program by ICF Accredited Optimus Coach Academy and will soon commence a Seed Transformation Program for Established Entrepreneurs with annual revenue of between 300,000 – 15 million USD at the prestigious Stanford University, California.

Name: Amina J. Mohammed
Nationality: Nigerian/British
Sector: Politician

Amina Jane Mohammed GCON is a British-Nigerian diplomat and politician who is serving as the fifth Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations. She is the first woman to hold this position. Prior to her current role, Ms. Mohammed served as Nigeria's Minister of Environment from 2015 to 2016. She was also a key player in the Post-2015 Development Agenda process, which led to the adoption of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in 2015. Mrs. Mohammed is a strong advocate for the SDGs and has called for urgent action to achieve them. She has said that the SDGs are "the world's best chance to create a more just, sustainable and prosperous future for all."

In her role as Deputy Secretary-General, Ms. Mohammed is responsible for overseeing the UN's work on sustainable development. She is also the Chair of the UN Sustainable Development Group, which is a network of 38 UN agencies, funds, and programmes that work on sustainable development.

Mrs. Mohammed is a committed advocate for women's empowerment and gender equality. She has said that "gender equality is not just a goal in itself; it is also a precondition for achieving sustainable development." Mrs. Mohammed is a respected and experienced leader in the field of international development. She is a passionate advocate for the SDGs and is committed to working for a more just, sustainable and prosperous future for all.

Name: Intisar bashir kurfi
Nationality: Nigerian
Sector: Entrepreneur

Intisar Bashir Kurfi is an architect and seasoned entrepreneur who is passionately committed to promoting Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 6 and 11, which focus on providing clean water and sanitation and building sustainable cities and communities. Driven by her desire to make a positive impact on the world, Intisar founded Sustainovation Solutions, a company that converts sachets of "pure water nylon" into interlocking tiles that are more durable than conventional ones. In addition, the company manufactures eco-friendly toilets using waste from pep bottles.

Intisar's innovative approach to waste management has not only earned her recognition as one of the Leading Women in Africa and one of the 100 Most Inspiring Women in Nigeria, but it has also the potential to generate significant revenue and create numerous job opportunities. Intisar's dedication to sustainability is not limited to her work at Sustainovation Solutions. As the CEO of Afrique Collections and Designs Ltd., an interior design company, she is committed to promoting environmentally friendly practices within the industry. Intisar Bashir Kurfi is a shining example of how individuals can use their skills and talents to make a positive difference in the world. Her commitment to sustainability is an inspiration to us all.

Name: Imaan Sulaiman-IbrahimNationality: NigerianSector: Politician
Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim is a Nigerian politician and businesswoman who has held a number of high-profile positions in the Nigerian government. Director-General, National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) (December 2020 - May 2021)Honourable Federal Commissioner, National Commission for Refugees, Migrants, and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI) (May 2021). In her role as Director-General of NAPTIP, Ms. Sulaiman-Ibrahim was responsible for overseeing the agency's efforts to combat human trafficking in Nigeria. She is a strong advocate for the protection of victims of trafficking and has worked to raise awareness of the issue both in Nigeria and abroad.
As Honourable Federal Commissioner of NCFRMI, Mrs. Sulaiman-Ibrahim is responsible for overseeing the commission's work on behalf of refugees, migrants, and internally displaced persons in Nigeria. She is committed to ensuring that these vulnerable populations receive the assistance they need to rebuild their lives. Mrs. Sulaiman-Ibrahim is a respected and experienced leader in the field of public service. She is a passionate advocate for the rights of vulnerable populations and is committed to making a positive difference in the world.

Name: Hannatu musawa
Nationality: Nigerian
Sector: Politician

Hannatu Musawa holds a degree in law from the University of Buckingham, UK and took a Postgraduate Masters Degree in the Legal Aspects of Marine Affairs from the University of Cardiff, Wales. She also has a Postgraduate Masters Degree in Oil and Gas Law from the University of Aberdeen.

As a qualified Barrister and Solicitor of the Supreme Court of Nigeria, she has had a varied and rich working experience both in Nigeria and in the UK. She is completing a Doctorate, which she has enrolled for part time. Hannatu is a qualified Solicitor in England and Wales, UK. also a member of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators. She has worked as a Litigation lawyer and legal advisor to a number of private Companies. As junior lawyer, she was attached to the law firm of Late Chief Clement Akpamgbo (former Attorney General of the federation) she also worked briefly with Barrister Bala Na Allah during the Oputa Panel; Human Rights Violation Commission. She consequently went ahead to form the firm of Hanney Musawa & Associates, where she is presently the Principal Partner. From 2003, she has been an active political activist. She fully participated in the political activities of the opposition during the 2003 and 2007 Nigerian elections. She was also one of the lawyers on the prosecution's leading team in the 2003 Presidential Election Petition between General Muhammadu Buhari and General Olusegun Obasanjo. In the aftermath of that election petition, she continued to express and voice her views through the medium of print media by maintaining a weekly newspaper column. It is a forum she uses to speak out, without fear or favor, on behalf of Nigerians who have no voice and on issues that border on the premise of peace and justice. She has been a human rights and Women’s rights activist for several years. In 2011, Hannatu Musawa contested for the Federal House of Representatives legislative seat for her state Katsina Nigeria.

Name: Layla Ali Othman
Nationality: Nigerian
Sector: Entrepreneur

Laylah Ali Othman is a Nigerian interior designer, writer, reality TV presenter as well as business woman, who is best known for selling home furnishings such as chairs and beds, she is also known as the owner of a publishing company called L magazine, and it presents a program called VOICE OF THE YOUTH. She is also the owner of Almat farms.
Additionally, Laylah pursued a diploma in space management at the Marin school of interior Decor and Design. Her dedication to education led her to attain a second degree from ESCAE- University in Benin Republic. Her notable achievements over the years are the Award of Excellence from Gamji students, ABU and West African Students 2018. In 2019, she received an Award of Honor from Nigerian Youth Progress. In 2020 Laylah received an Award of Honor from the National Association of Northern Corpers. (NANC).

Name: Natasha Hadiza Akpoti
Nationality: Nigerian
Sector: Politician

Natasha Hadiza Akpoti is a Nigerian Barrister, Social Entrepreneur and Politician, who ran for the post of Senator for Kogi Central Senatorial District under Social Democratic Party (SDP) in the year 2019. She contested in the 2019 Kogi State Gubernatorial Election which was held on 16 November 2019. She is the founder of Builders Hub Impact Investment Program (BHIIP).

Balancing work and home can be a challenge for anyone, but it can be especially difficult for women. Women often have the primary responsibility for childcare and household chores, which can make it hard to find time for work.

There are a few things you can do to balance your work and home life.

Setting Priorities: The first step towards achieving a balanced work and home life is setting clear priorities. Take some time to reflect on what truly matters to you. Is it excelling in your career, nurturing your family, pursuing personal passions, or all of the above? Once you've identified your priorities, focus your energy and time on those aspects of your life. Remember, it's okay to let go of tasks or commitments that don't align with your core values and goals.

Delegating Tasks: You don't have to be a superhero who does it all alone. If you have family members, friends, or a support network, don't hesitate to delegate tasks. Sharing responsibilities not only lightens your load but also strengthens bonds and fosters a sense of community. It's a powerful reminder that you're not alone in this journey.
Carving Out 'Me' Time: Amidst the hustle and bustle, don't forget about yourself. It's crucial to allocate a portion of your day to self-care. Whether it's a quiet moment with a book, a relaxing bath, or a short walk in the park, 'me' time allows you to recharge and rejuvenate. Remember, when you take care of yourself, you become more efficient and effective at both work and home.
Seeking Support and Flexibility: Advocate for your needs at work and at home. Discuss flexible work arrangements with your employer if possible. Open communication with your family members can help in creating a supportive environment where everyone pitches in to achieve balance.

Balancing work and home is not easy, but it is possible. By following these tips, you can find a way to achieve work-life balance and live a happy and fulfilling life.

Traditional spas have been around for centuries, and they offer a variety of treatments that are said to promote relaxation, healing, and beauty. However, there are some myths and facts about traditional spas that you should know before you visit one. One myth about traditional spas is that they are only for women. This is not true. Traditional spas offer treatments for both men and women. In fact, many men are now enjoying the benefits of traditional spa treatments.
Another myth about traditional spas is that they are expensive. This is not always true. There are many traditional spas that offer affordable treatments. You can also find traditional spa treatments at some health clubs and hotels. One fact about traditional spas is that they use natural ingredients. This is because traditional spas believe that natural ingredients are more effective than synthetic ingredients. Natural ingredients are also less likely to cause allergies or irritation.
Another fact about traditional spas is that they offer a variety of treatments. This means that you can find a treatment that is right for your individual needs. Whether you are looking for relaxation, healing, or beauty, you can find a treatment at a traditional spa that will help you achieve your goals.

Arewa women are increasingly becoming a force to be reckoned with in the business world. They are starting their own businesses, taking on leadership roles in established companies, and making a significant impact on the economy.
One pivotal factor driving the remarkable rise of Arewa women in business is the increasing access to education. More Arewa women are pursuing higher education, earning degrees, and equipping themselves with the skills and knowledge necessary for success in the competitive business arena. Education not only empowers them but also opens doors to opportunities that were previously inaccessible. As women continue to gain access to quality education, they are acquiring a diverse set of skills, ranging from management and leadership to entrepreneurship and technology. This newfound expertise is serving as a foundation for their ventures and leadership roles within established companies, amplifying their influence and contributions to the economy.
Another significant driver behind the rise of Arewa women in business is the evolving social landscape. Historically, Arewa women often faced societal pressure and discouragement when contemplating careers outside the home. However, a noticeable shift is taking place. Traditional attitudes that once limited women's choices are giving way to a more progressive and inclusive perspective. Arewa women in business are inspiring future generations, demonstrating that dreams can be realized, and barriers can be overcome through perseverance, education, and empowerment.
To sum it up, the remarkable rise of Arewa women in the business world is an encouraging trend that augments the region's economic development while simultaneously transforming societal norms. It is a testament to the resilience, determination, and potential of Arewa women, serving as an inspiration to all and highlighting the limitless possibilities that can be achieved when opportunities are embraced and barriers are dismantled.