Dr. Jamila Mohammed Dahiru: Bridging Education, Leadership, and Innovation in Northern Nigeria

Born and raised in Northern Nigeria, Dr. Jamila Mohammed Dahiru was guided from an early age by the values of faith, resilience, and service—principles that have defined both her personal and professional journey. Academically accomplished, she holds a Ph.D. in Mass Communication, an Ed.D. in Educational Leadership, a Postgraduate Diploma in Education, and both M.Sc. and B.A. degrees in Mass Communication.

Dr. Jamila began her career as a classroom teacher before moving into academia. She lectured at the Department of Mass Communication, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, for seven years, mentoring and supervising students, before transferring her expertise to the University of Abuja, where she now lectures in the Department of Development and Strategic Communication.

Her work extends beyond academia into consultancy with international organizations such as the World Bank, FCDO–Lafiya Project, UNDP, USAID–State2State, and the Open Contracting Partnership. These engagements allowed her to blend local realities with global best practices, making an impact on governance, reform, and inclusive development.

Dr. Jamila also served as Commissioner of Education in Bauchi State, collaborating with educators, traditional rulers, civil servants, and development partners to strengthen the education system, improve quality, and expand opportunities for learners. This role reinforced her belief that leadership is most effective when it is collaborative and people-centered.

She is the author of three books—A Woven Woman: Life in Academia, Public Service and Tradition; Dear Self: Lessons from Two Years of Friday Reflection; and Educating the North: Shaping Tomorrow Together—each capturing a different dimension of her journey and vision. At the heart of her work, whether in the classroom, in government, through consultancy, or in writing, is a singular purpose: to use education, communication, and empowerment as tools to bridge divides and inspire lasting change.

“Leadership is most effective when it is collaborative and people-centered.”

Dr. Jamila’s identity as a policy analyst and digital transformation leader was forged through advanced training at the London School of Economics and Imperial College London. These programs equipped her with frameworks, tools, and global perspectives to critically evaluate governance challenges and lead digital transformation initiatives in ways that are inclusive and sustainable.

This identity is reflected in practice. In her consultancy work, advisory roles, and teaching, Dr. Jamila approaches challenges with a dual lens: rigorous, evidence-based policy analysis and human-centered digital innovation. Whether advising on education strategies, contributing to inclusive development discussions, or mentoring young leaders, she brings these insights into every endeavor.

Her cross-sector experience, from academia to donor-funded development programs to executive government roles, has given her a comprehensive view of how systems work and how they can be made to work better for people.

Serving as Commissioner of Education in Bauchi State proved both humbling and transformative for Dr. Jamila. Stepping into the role as a young academic with no political background, she faced skepticism about her ability to navigate government bureaucracy, community expectations, and political pressures. Rather than being discouraged, she embraced these challenges, leading with integrity, listening deeply, and building trust across diverse constituencies.

Dr. Jamila’s experience taught her that leadership is not about titles or authority, but about creating spaces for collaboration. Working with traditional rulers, teachers, civil servants, development partners, and young people showed her how diverse voices, when respected, can align toward common goals.

Her work was also deeply human. Beyond policies and reforms, she encountered stories of students, teachers, and parents whose lives were directly affected by government decisions, reinforcing the idea that governance is not abstract, it touches people in immediate and personal ways.

Dr. Jamila’s drive is rooted in her upbringing and faith. Growing up in a family and culture that valued service, discipline, and resilience gave her a strong foundation, while her faith continues to remind her that work is ultimately an act of responsibility and stewardship.

She draws inspiration from mentors, teachers, colleagues, and the young people she meets, all of whom reinforce the importance of education and empowerment. Societal challenges, gaps in education, inequities in opportunity, and the urgent need for inclusive development, fuel her commitment to making a difference.

Her work is guided by core values: integrity, equity, impact, and continuous learning.

Dr. Jamila combines grassroots wisdom with global insight to ensure that ideas are both visionary and grounded in reality. Operating at the intersection of communication, governance, and digital innovation, she connects theory with practical solutions.

In her university lectures, she integrates real policy case studies and encourages students to co-create solutions, transforming classrooms into laboratories of innovation. Her experience in public service underscored the importance of listening before acting, as true reform begins with understanding. As a strategist, she emphasizes human-centered design, ensuring that solutions respond to people’s needs rather than abstract models.

Dr. Jamila’s early career in public service was met with skepticism due to her age and non-affiliation with political groups. Leading a ministry perceived as political and vast was a significant challenge, but she responded with competence, evidence, and results, redefining the narrative: credibility, not connection, is the true currency of leadership.

As a woman in a highly visible position, she faced underestimation and misinterpretation of her personal life. Despite rumors and misconceptions, she remained steadfast in her beliefs and values, ultimately earning respect and recognition as a professional.

Dr. Jamila’s long-term goals focus on deepening her scholarship, mentoring young leaders, and sustaining ventures such as the WeCare Centre and AlRahaa businesses. She envisions creating lasting platforms for empowerment and education, leaving a legacy of meaningful impact.

“My goal is to remain authentic to my values, faith, service, and integrity, while building a body of work and a legacy that speaks for itself.”

She engages stakeholders through listening, co-creation, and shared ownership. Sustainable solutions emerge when people feel their voices matter. During the Bauchi State Education Summit, diverse participants shaped the agenda, giving legitimacy and ownership to outcomes.

In academia, Dr. Jamila fosters student-led initiatives, encouraging ownership of campaigns and projects. This approach ensures that initiatives endure beyond their initial implementation.

Among Dr. Jamila’s most fulfilling accomplishments is transforming education in Bauchi State. Her work reduced out-of-school children, implemented inclusive education policies, launched quality assurance systems, and mobilized multi-million-dollar programs with international partners. She also oversaw annual school censuses, providing critical data for a long-term strategic education plan, demonstrating that evidence-based policy, community engagement, and innovative financing can converge to produce measurable change.

Dr. Jamila is currently developing AI Sisters, a digital learning initiative leveraging artificial intelligence to expand girls’ access to education in underserved areas. She is also launching a Digital Policy Fellowship, training young Nigerians in digital governance and mentorship.

She will soon release three books reflecting her journey and advocacy: A Woven Woman: Life in Academia, Public Service and Tradition; Dear Self: Lessons from Two Years of Friday Reflection; and Educating the North: Shaping Tomorrow Together. These projects reflect her enduring commitment to education, innovation, and authentic leadership.

“Education, innovation, and authenticity are powerful tools for reshaping societies and inspiring the next generation.”

Dr. Jamila advises young professionals to begin with purpose, stay curious, and never compromise their integrity. She encourages service, continuous learning, and staying grounded in values, emphasizing that authenticity is a superpower that sustains leadership and draws opportunities.

Dr. Jamila founded the WeCare Centre for Community Awareness and Empowerment Initiative, a non-profit that supports girl-child education, women and youth empowerment, and digital literacy. The organization has reached thousands through community programs, scholarships, mentorship, and vocational training.

She is also Co-Founder of the AlRahaa Group, which includes Travels & Tours, Real Estate, Oil and Gas, and Consult, combining entrepreneurship with sustainable community impact.

Through grit, intellect, and unwavering purpose, Dr. Jamila Mohammed Dahiru continues to inspire a generation of leaders. Her work exemplifies how faith, integrity, and service can transform systems, empower communities, and leave a lasting legacy.

The Glow of Determination: How Zahra’u Yakubu’s Dream Blossomed into the Zafar Beauty Empire

 

Zahra’u Aminu Yakubu was born, brought up, and schooled in Bauchi. Her journey into the world of beauty and fashion began naturally — her mother was a fashion designer, so she grew up surrounded by creativity. She initially started a business in the fashion line, inspired by her mum. Makeup, at the time, was just a hobby. But along the line, with encouragement from family and a few friends, she turned that hobby into a business in 2017.

At first, her intention was simply to support her kids’ ready-to-wear clothing business. However, things took a new turn. Alhamdulillah, today she can hardly recall the last time she sewed, as her makeup business has grown tremendously. The expansion that came in 2023 marked a new chapter for her — Zafar Beauty Lounge now offers a wide range of services including hairdressing, spa treatments, pedicures, henna, and more.

The name ZAFAR holds a special meaning; it’s derived from the initials of Zahra’u’s name, her husband’s, and her children’s. Initially, the business was called ZAFAR GLAM, then later ZAFAR ELAN. But during the expansion, she and her team decided to broaden the brand to encompass more services within the beauty industry.

Interestingly, her business isn’t related to her academic course, but Zahra’u hopes to diversify in the future. Her inspiration for venturing into the beauty, fashion, and self-care industry comes from her passion for helping people look and feel their best. She has always believed that beauty isn’t just about appearance — it’s about confidence.

What continues to motivate Zahra’u to grow and expand Zafar Beauty Lounge is the satisfaction of her clients and the positive impact her work has on their lives. Each time a client leaves with a smile and renewed confidence, it reminds her why she started. She is driven by the desire to keep innovating, offer more services, and build a brand that truly represents excellence in the beauty industry.

Zafar Beauty Lounge stands for excellence, professionalism, and care. The brand values authenticity, creativity, and customer satisfaction, with the belief that beauty services should go beyond the surface. These values are evident in how every client is treated — with respect and warmth. The goal is not only to enhance beauty but also to build confidence and create a space where clients feel valued and cared for.

To ensure the mission reflects in daily operations, Zahra’u and her team remain intentional about consistency, quality, and customer care. They carefully select products to ensure safety and effectiveness because client well-being is a top priority. Feedback is also taken seriously and used to improve services, showing clients that their voices matter.

What truly sets Zafar Beauty Lounge apart is the personal touch behind everything they do. For Zahra’u, it’s not just about makeup or beauty services — it’s about helping every woman feel confident, valued, and beautiful in her own unique way. Each client’s experience is personalized, from the initial consultation to the final look, ensuring they leave not just looking good, but feeling good.

The brand’s uniqueness also comes from combining professional beauty standards with a sense of cultural elegance that reflects their identity. They maintain strict hygiene, use only trusted products, and pay attention to every detail that enhances natural beauty.

One of the major challenges Zahra’u faced was managing finances and staff during the early stages of her business. Running a beauty lounge meant balancing expenses, maintaining product quality, and keeping staff motivated. She overcame these challenges through wise budgeting, reinvesting profits, and establishing clear systems for accountability and teamwork.

Through these experiences, she learned that patience, consistency, and customer care are the true foundations of business growth. Every challenge became a lesson that refined the brand, improved service quality, and strengthened Zafar Beauty Lounge’s identity.

At the moment, Zahra’u isn’t involved in any other serious business aside from Zafar Beauty Lounge, but she looks forward to exploring new ventures in the future. Her long-term goal is to launch a cosmetic brand under the Zafar name — a line that reflects their commitment to quality, innovation, and inclusivity. This will allow the brand to serve a wider audience and solidify its place as a complete beauty and self-care brand.

At Zafar Beauty Lounge, clients are truly at the heart of everything. The team focuses on building genuine relationships by offering personalized services, listening to clients’ needs, and ensuring every visit feels like a luxury experience. The aim isn’t just to make clients look beautiful, but to make them feel valued, confident, and part of the Zafar family. They also stay connected with clients through social media platforms.

Zahra’u’s most memorable project was doing makeup for Hajia Aisha Shamsuddeen Bala Muhammad. Hajia Aisha was so pleased with the service that she paid extra, sponsored Zahra’u for an advanced class with one of Abuja’s best makeup artists, and gifted her additional makeup products. Zahra’u remains forever grateful for that experience.

When asked what’s next, she smiles and says she can’t give any spoilers — but we should definitely anticipate something big.

Her advice to aspiring entrepreneurs in the beauty and wellness industry is to start with a clear purpose and stay true to it. The industry is full of trends, but authenticity is what builds lasting brands. She believes one must understand their “why” — whether it’s to empower confidence, promote self-care, or create beauty solutions — and let that guide every decision.

She also emphasizes that innovation should be a constant mindset. Entrepreneurs should keep learning, invest in their skills, and pay attention to what clients truly need. They shouldn’t be afraid to experiment, evolve, and bring something fresh to the market that reflects their unique touch.

Finally, Zahra’u advises focusing on impact, not just profit. She encourages others to build brands that add value, uplift others, and leave a positive mark. For her, that’s exactly what Zafar Beauty Lounge represents — a perfect blend of quality, creativity, and care that helps people feel their best. When you stay authentic, innovative, and purpose-driven, success naturally follows.

Niixo Ltd builds futures by giving Africa’s youth the tools, platforms, and opportunities they need to thrive

Bismillahir Rahmani Rahim

Abdullahi Chinade Abdullahi is a creative entrepreneur and tech enthusiast from Bauchi, Nigeria. From a young age, he carried a deep passion for using technology and creativity to solve real problems, especially in communities where access to innovation was limited.

His professional journey began in media and storytelling, where he produced impactful projects such as Garin Barau and Rigar Gaskiya, works that reflected culture and social issues in Northern Nigeria. Over time, his path gradually evolved into technology, design, and entrepreneurship. With resilience and vision, he went on to establish Niixo Ltd, a creative-tech enterprise dedicated to empowering Africa’s youth, businesses, and communities through innovative solutions.

The name Niixo itself carries a powerful meaning. It symbolizes innovation, creativity, and fresh perspectives. It reflects a forward-looking mindset: helping Africa move from being consumers of technology to becoming creators of solutions. Even the double “ii” in the name has purpose, representing innovation + inclusion, two values deeply woven into the company’s DNA.

Through Niixo Studios, Abdullahi has delivered branding, social media, and content creation services to brands such as AMF Fashion, Stylex Wears, Almuhibbah Open University, and others. In the tech space, he has developed youth-centered platforms like Zeeroh, a freelancing and microfinance app, and Dliva, an on-demand motorbike delivery solution that leverages WhatsApp for accessibility. These experiences not only shaped his versatility but also gave him the resilience to create and scale a solutions-driven company.

Although much of his journey in tech and entrepreneurship has been self-taught, Abdullahi never stopped learning. He immersed himself in AI, digital creativity, entrepreneurship, and public speaking. This learning mindset became the very foundation of Niixo’s culture, a company that experiments, adapts, and grows constantly.

Growing up in Northern Nigeria, Abdullahi saw first-hand how the lack of access to technology and innovation limited opportunities for young people. This reality ignited his drive to change the narrative. His philosophy has always been simple but powerful: African solutions must be designed by Africans, with cultural authenticity and global competitiveness.

Niixo Ltd was built on this philosophy and continues to embody values of innovation, inclusion, authenticity, excellence, and impact. Every project is created not just to exist, but to solve real problems. From Zeeroh empowering youth with digital earning and learning opportunities, to Dliva redesigning logistics with local realities in mind, to initiatives like Women in Tech and Emerge Creatives Conference that empower women and creatives in Northern Nigeria — Niixo remains committed to building native, practical, and scalable solutions.

The journey, however, has not been without challenges. Abdullahi has faced issues ranging from power outages that damaged equipment, to skepticism in a market still warming up to tech adoption, to balancing limited resources with big ambitions. Yet, through resilience, partnerships, and innovation, he learned to start small, build trust, and grow steadily.

His long-term vision for Niixo is bold. He dreams of expanding from a Bauchi-based company into a pan-African platform, unlocking access to technology, creativity, and innovation ecosystems across Abuja, Lagos, and eventually the entire continent. He sees Niixo as a hub of African innovation, one that trains, empowers, and transforms.

Engagement and trust remain key pillars of his work. Abdullahi connects with audiences through impactful social media campaigns, partnerships with schools and foundations, and landmark events such as Women in Tech and Emerge Creatives Conference. His belief is clear: trust is built by staying authentic, delivering results, and remaining accessible.

Among his proudest achievements is the Women in Tech initiative, a gender-based digital skills program that began as a local CSR effort. Today, it has grown beyond expectations and has even been adopted by the international NGO, shurahforall.org. This milestone stands as proof of how small, local solutions can blossom into globally recognized initiatives.

Looking forward, Abdullahi is excited about the projects Niixo is preparing to launch including the Zeeroh App (a youth ecosystem), Dliva (WhatsApp-powered logistics), and DeenFlow AI, an Islamic tech-driven da’wah media initiative. Each of these innovations reflects his core vision: combining technology, creativity, and culture to push boundaries.

To young entrepreneurs who dream of using technology and creativity to solve African problems, Abdullahi offers timeless advice: start with the problems around you, use the tools you already have, remain authentic, think big but scale step by step, and always build for impact first, profit will follow.

This is the story of Abdullahi Chinade Abdullahi, a visionary who believes Africa’s future will not be imported, but built from within.

Thank you.