IWD2023: Pharm. Abdulkareem Asuku, A Champion of Women Empowerment »

As a young boy growing up in Kogi State, Pharm. Abdulkareem Asuku Jamiu knew the value of education. He had seen firsthand the struggles that women in his community faced and knew that he wanted to make a difference in their lives. It was this passion that drove him to empower women through various initiatives, starting from his days in secondary school.

While in secondary school, Pharm. Asuku saw the disparity between the number of boys and girls studying science courses. He knew that this was a problem that needed to be addressed. So, he took it upon himself to encourage young girls to study science courses by gifting them science textbooks.

This simple act of kindness had a profound impact on the lives of many young girls who went on to pursue careers in science and technology.

Pharm. Asuku’s passion for empowering women did not end in secondary school. While in senior secondary school, he organized extramural classes for students, which he continued while he was in the university. His goal was to provide additional support for students who were struggling in their studies, particularly girls.

As he grew older, Pharm. Asuku’s dedication to women empowerment only grew stronger. He knew that he needed to do more to make a difference in the lives of women in his community.
So, he founded the Pharm. Abdulkareem Asuku Youth Empowerment Foundation (PAAYEF) with the goal of empowering women and youth through skill acquisition training.

Through PAAYEF, Pharm. Asuku has trained 21 women in tailoring. These women are now able to make a living for themselves and their families, thanks to his efforts. He has also paid the WAEC/NECO fees for the winner of the NAES Spelling Bee, a young girl named Ummulsalma. This shows his commitment to encouraging and supporting the education of young girls.

In addition, he has empowered 200 widows and 50 families affected by the 2007/2009 political crisis in Kogi central. He understands the struggles that women face and has made it his mission to provide them with the necessary resources to succeed.
Pharm. Asuku’s dedication to women’s empowerment extends beyond his foundation.

During his tenure as the Chief of Staff to His Excellency, Alh. Yahaya Bello, more women were appointed as political office holders. This led to meeting the 35% affirmative action on women’s appointments.
The highest beneficiaries of his Foundation’s medical outreaches and surgeries are women. Health services ranging from myomectomy, pre-natal care, CS, cataract surgeries, and more, have been provided to women across Kogi State.

Pharm. Abdulkareem Asuku Jamiu is a true champion of women’s rights and empowerment. His dedication to the cause started from his days in secondary school and has only grown stronger over time. He has shown that through dedication, hard work, and a deep passion for change, we can all make a difference in the world. Let us all take a moment to celebrate and appreciate his efforts on this International Women’s Day, and beyond.

Compiled by Asuku Media Center