Dr. Amina Abubakar Bello is not your average First Lady. During her time as the first lady of Niger, while some were busy with fashion and red carpets, she was out there saving lives. As an Obstetrician and Gynaecologist, she used her position as the First Lady of Niger State to make a real difference.
During a trip to Addis Ababa, Dr. Amina met Professor Amadi, an expert in saving babies’ lives. Excited to hear that he was Nigerian, she convinced him to come to Minna, the capital of Niger State.
Once in Minna, Dr. Amina wasted no time. She was already running her Arise Foundation, which focused on helping women with Vesicovaginal Fistula (VVF) and cervical cancer. Through medical engineering, she reduced infant mortality rates significantly.
Dr. Amina comes from a family of leaders. Her father was a Head of State, her mother a Chief Judge, and her husband a Governor. Even her father-in-law was a military governor. She was born into affluence but never let it get to her head.
Dr. Amina’s Raise Foundation advocates for better health for women, especially in areas like cervical cancer screening and treatment. She believes that religious leaders play a crucial role in promoting health awareness.
As the Chairperson of the GBV Management Committee, Dr. Amina pushes for laws against gender-based violence. She also advocates for female education and inclusiveness of women in leadership positions.
Dr. Amina doesn’t shy away from speaking out against injustice. She condemned the mistreatment of the Tagina boys and urged them not to give up on education. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she emphasized the importance of vaccination and unity in Nigeria.
