In a historic move, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has appointed Hadiza Bala Usman as the new Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), marking the first time a woman has held this pivotal position in Nigeria's political history. This appointment underscores the administration's commitment to inclusivity and gender representation at the highest levels of government.
A Trailblazing Career
Born on January 2, 1976, in Zaria, Kaduna State, Hadiza Bala Usman hails from a lineage of notable public servants. Her father, Yusufu Bala Usman, was a respected academic and historian, and her great-grandfather, Abdullahi Bayero, served as the 10th Emir of Kano.
Usman's academic journey led her to Ahmadu Bello University, where she earned a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, followed by a Master's degree in Development Studies from the University of Leeds.
Her professional trajectory includes significant roles such as:
- Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) (2016–2021): Usman was the first woman to hold this position, where she implemented reforms to enhance operational efficiency and transparency.
- Chief of Staff to the Governor of Kaduna State (2015–2016): She played a crucial role in policy formulation and implementation.
- Special Adviser on Policy and Coordination to President Tinubu (2023–2025): In this role, she was instrumental in establishing performance metrics for ministers and ensuring accountability within the administration.
Additionally, Usman co-founded the *Bring Back Our Girls* campaign in 2014, advocating for the rescue of abducted schoolgirls and highlighting issues of security and education in Nigeria.
Implications of the Appointment
Usman's appointment as SGF is not only a personal achievement but also a significant milestone for women's representation in Nigerian politics. It sends a strong message about the evolving landscape of governance in Nigeria, where competence and dedication are increasingly recognized, regardless of gender.
Her extensive experience in public administration and policy coordination positions her to effectively manage the responsibilities of the SGF, which include ensuring the implementation of government policies and coordinating activities among ministries and agencies.
Hadiza Bala Usman's appointment as the first female Secretary to the Government of the Federation is a landmark event in Nigeria's political history. Her career reflects a commitment to public service, transparency, and reform. As she steps into this new role, her leadership is expected to contribute significantly to the Tinubu administration's goals and to inspire increased female participation in governance.
Note: This article is based on information available as of June 29, 2025.
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