How Hon Fatima Talba Is Reshaping Role of Women in Nigerian Politics
By Ibrahim H. Tinja (Abuja)
Fatima Talba is a trailblazing leader and a shining example of excellence in public service. With over 25 years of experience, she has established herself as a champion of women and youth development, education, and advocacy for the girl child.
Talba ‘s Career
She started as a Director in Ministry of Health in Yobe State, from there she became a Permanent secretary and was reappointed three times in that capacity .
Afterwards, Hajia Talba was appointed as a Special Adviser to the Governor of the state then.
Later on, she became a Director General in the State Ministry .She is currently a two time legislator in the National Assembly Abuja.
Apart from that, under the military administration in the 90s, Hon Talba served as a two times chairperson ( Chairman) of Nangere and Karasuwa Local Government Areas at three different times in Yobe State.
During the democratic dispensation, Hon.Talba served as two times Commissioner in yobe State respectively.
According to her, ‘there is virtually no office in Yobe State that I have not touched .
And above all she’s philanthropist and a mother/ grand mother not only for her biological children but for all.
Her impressive background in nursing and wealth of experience in public service have equipped her with the expertise to drive positive change in Nigeria ¹.
As a member of the House of Representatives, representing Nangere/Potiskum Federal Constituency in Yobe State under the All Progressive Congress in the 10th National Assembly, Fatima has made significant contributions to debates and discussions on national issues.
Her presence in the National Assembly has enabled her to shape policy decisions that impact Nigeria, leveraging her experience in public service and nursing to improve the lives of citizens.
Fatima’s expertise spans multiple areas, including ,Women and Youth Development where she advocates for empowerment through education and economic opportunities. She also emphasizes the importance of *Education*, particularly for the girl child, and works to improve access to quality education.
Bringing More Women Into Politics
To address the low participation of women in politics, Honorable Fatima Talba has initiated a project to guarantee increased female involvement. “We are trying to get all schools to introduce the teaching of politics in their curriculum, with a special interest in the girl child and women,” she explained. “Once girls and women are educated in politics at an early stage, it won’t be difficult for them to participate in politics later in life.”
The astute politician also revealed that her efforts include canvassing for a special number of seats to be reserved for women at the state and federal levels in legislative houses. “I am working on a bill that would reserve special seats for women at the National and State Assemblies,” she said. “Once that is done, the parties would have no choice but to bring female candidates to contest for the posts. With this in place, the Federal Government, State Government, and others would have no choice but to encourage women to actively participate in politics.”
Apart from that, empowering females financially to raise the financial wherewithal to take care of their homes and participate in politics is another pet project of the lawmaker.
Additionally, Hon. Talba explained that she and other female legislators would embark on a nationwide tour aimed at encouraging women to participate in politics. “Very soon, we shall be moving round all the states in order to encourage women to participate in politics and we shall be starting from states which have local government elections.”
She added that part of her efforts in ensuring that women are fully engaged in politics includes convincing male legislators at the state level to allow more women to participate in politics at all levels .
Hon.Talba’s Wealth of Experience Places Her on Sound Foot to encourage Female Participation in politics
Her experience in policy decision-making has allowed her to shape policies that affect Nigeria, making her a valuable asset to the National Assembly.
Fatima’s dedication to public service and her commitment to creating positive change in Nigeria are truly inspiring. She is a role model for women and girls across the country, demonstrating that with hard work, determination, and a passion for making a difference, anyone can achieve greatness. Her impressive resume is a testament to her sterling quality, and she will undoubtedly continue to make a lasting impact in Nigeria’s political landscape.
Fatima Talba’s dedication to public service and her commitment to creating positive change in Nigeria are truly inspiring. She is a role model for women and girls across the country, demonstrating that with hard work, determination, and a passion for making a difference, anyone can achieve greatness. Her impressive resume is a testament to her sterling quality, and she will undoubtedly continue to make a lasting impact in Nigeria’s political landscape
