By Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna
The National President of Women for Peace in Nigeria (WOPIN), Dr. Maryam C. Abdullahi, has restated that the organisation was founded on September 18, 1998, with a mission to ease the burden of womanhood in societies and communities across Nigeria.
Speaking at the organisation’s 27th anniversary and Humanitarian Awards ceremony, organised by the 21st Century Pan African Royalties Worldwide in Abuja, Dr. Abdullahi said WOPIN has grown from a local NGO into a global alliance promoting conflict management, religious tolerance, respect for diversity and human dignity.
She noted that WOPIN’s membership now stands at 15,638, including 11,932 women, 3,324 youths and 382 men, all playing key roles in peacebuilding initiatives.
“Over 27 years, our mission has been about mothers who share their last meals so others will not go hungry, and young girls who study by candlelight because they believe education will light their future,” she said.
According to her, WOPIN has promoted dialogue, supported communities and engaged youths in peace processes. The group has also reconciled more than 300 families through family-focused programmes, underscoring its belief that peace begins at home.
On education, Dr. Abdullahi revealed that WOPIN has sponsored students through scholarship schemes, with support from partners including Finpat Schools and the late First Lady, Stella Obasanjo. In healthcare, the organisation championed HIV/AIDS awareness campaigns with the support of the Kaduna State Government, while UNICEF sponsored its care and support programmes for orphans.
She described the 27-year journey as one of resilience and impact, adding that the organisation has built bridges between communities, empowered youths for peace advocacy, and strengthened interfaith understanding.
The anniversary was attended by dignitaries, ambassadors, peace diplomats, philanthropists and community stakeholders from Nigeria and abroad.
Dr. Abdullahi thanked the chairman of the 21st Century Pan African Royalties Worldwide, London, and traditional leaders from Ghana, Kenya and Burkina Faso, among others, for their partnership and support.
“As we look ahead, we recommit to our vision — to deepen our impact, innovate our approaches and expand our reach,” she said.
