By ENITAN ABEL JOHNGOLD ORHERUATA, mnipr
No fewer than 250 Christian widows drawn from seven local government areas of Jigawa South-West Senatorial Zone have received food items to celebrate the 2025 Christmas season and usher in the New Year 2026, following a humanitarian intervention by renowned philanthropist and APC chieftain, Ambassador Dr. Halima Suleiman Zakari.
The beneficiaries, who cut across Dutse, Kiyawa, Miga, Buji, Birnin Kudu, Gwaram and Jahun Local Government Areas, received 250 bags of rice and one cow, donated by Dr. Zakari as part of her commitment to supporting vulnerable groups and fostering peaceful coexistence.
Speaking shortly after the distribution, Dr. Zakari, who was represented by Umar Baffa Kiyawa, said the gesture was aimed at complementing the spirit of the festive season and putting smiles on the faces of widows and other vulnerable members of society.
According to him, the donation was shared among Christian widows in collaboration with the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), noting that compassion, unity and love remain the true essence of the season.
He further prayed for a peaceful Christmas and New Year celebration and urged Christians to continue to pray for peace, stability and unity in Jigawa State and Nigeria at large.
Responding on behalf of the beneficiaries, Mrs. Mary Ade, one of the widows, expressed deep appreciation to Ambassador Dr. Halima Suleiman Zakari for the timely intervention, describing it as a gesture of hope and encouragement during a challenging period.
Similarly, the Deputy Women Leader of CAN, Mrs. Happiness Lawrence, commended the philanthropist for her generosity and called on other well-meaning individuals to emulate her selfless example.
Beyond seasonal charity, Ambassador Dr. Halima Suleiman Zakari is widely known as a strong advocate for women’s rights and leadership. She has initiated and sustained programmes that provide skills training, mentorship and leadership development opportunities for women across Northern Nigeria.
Her contributions also extend to community development, where she supports local communities through infrastructure development and capacity-building initiatives. As a passionate promoter of women’s leadership, she mentors and supports women to take up leadership roles in business, governance and politics.
Dr. Zakari is equally committed to sustainable development, championing environmental sustainability and green initiatives aimed at safeguarding future generations.
Her Policy Platform for Jigawa State outlines a comprehensive agenda focused on sustainable development, economic growth and social transformation, anchored on proven leadership experience and inclusive governance.
The Christmas outreach, many observers say, once again underscores Ambassador Dr. Halima Suleiman Zakari’s unwavering commitment to humanity, unity and purposeful leadership.
