Dr. Zainab Haruna: A journey of resilience, motherhood, and leadership in the face of adversity
Story by Ibrahim Gimba and Sulaiman Bomai, Abuja
In an exclusive interview with Neptune Prime, Her Excellency Dr. Zainab Haruna, shared her inspiring journey of resilience, dedication, and the unbreakable spirit of a woman striving to make a difference.
Known affectionately as Maman Ma’inakara, Dr. Zainab recounted the formidable challenges she faced as a student, mother, and politician, balancing her family life, academic pursuits, and ambitions in public service.
Dr. Zainab’s story is one of perseverance against overwhelming odds. She spoke openly about navigating the complexities of motherhood and campaigning for a seat in the House of Representatives, and later, the Senate, all while pursuing her studies. “There were countless nights I would study after putting my child to bed, only to wake up early for campaign meetings,” she shared. “It was a constant juggling act. I had to be fully present for my child, committed to my studies, and actively engaged in my political journey.”
Her path was anything but easy, especially during her husband’s tenure in office, where the expectations on her were often unrealistic. She described the misconceptions she faced: “People assumed I had a certain level of influence or power because of my husband’s role, but it wasn’t like that. I even heard people say that I wasn’t in school to truly learn but just to ‘buy a certificate.’”
Despite such comments and the exhausting routine of balancing her responsibilities, Dr. Zainab never wavered in her commitment to public service and social justice. She credited her family’s unwavering support and encouragement for helping her push through difficult times. “There were days I wanted to give up,” she admitted, “but knowing my family believed in me gave me the strength to continue.”
Dr. Zainab’s story underscores the resilience of women in leadership. When asked about advice for other women, she emphasized resilience, compassion, and community engagement as key virtues. “Women in politics face numerous challenges, but with determination and the right guidance, they can overcome these obstacles and achieve great things,” she encouraged. “Women should not be left behind in any area that matters, as they are integral to society.”
Dr. Zainab’s journey depicts the power of perseverance and the strength that women bring to leadership. Reflecting on her experiences, she shared her hope to inspire other women facing similar challenges. “If my story can motivate even one woman to keep pushing forward, then all the hardships were worth it,” she concluded.
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