By Emmanuel Kwada
Senator Masi Garba, former representative of Kaduna South, took center stage at the 2025 Annual Colloquium of the Haske Satumari Foundation in Abuja today, spotlighting the enduring impact of constituency projects she championed during her tenure.
She asserted that these initiatives are now delivering tangible benefits to her constituents, a testament to her persistent efforts to surmount gender, religious, and ethnic obstacles.
“We initiated constituency projects during my time as a member representing Kaduna South,” Senator Garba proclaimed. “Constituency projects are now helping, and it was because of our efforts.”
We initiated constituency projects during my time as a member representing Kaduna South
She spoke passionately about her resolve to dismantle gender stereotypes that plagued her campaign.
“Thanks to one Mallam who stood his ground in Kaduna and told my constituents, ‘Those men we’ve been voting for, what have they done for us? Let’s try this small girl.’ This was the only statement that made some people change their minds and support me, despite saying I’m a Christian and a woman. Seeing my efforts in Kaduna State, His Excellency Boni Haruna said I must return to Adamawa, where I faced the same challenges of religious and gender bias again.”
“Because I faced some hurdles during my campaign because I’m a woman, I had to make an effort to make a difference to erase that mentality that it’s only men that can do it,” she said, her words resonating with the audience.
We lose the nationalistic appeal if we make it about ‘our turn
Reflecting on her political journey, Senator Garba opened up about the personal struggles she endured. “I fought battles of religion and ethnicity during my time, and as a woman, it wasn’t easy for me, but it was worth it,” she said, earning a wave of applause. Her candid admission underscored her unwavering dedication to fostering inclusive leadership in the face of daunting challenges.
The colloquium, a vital forum for tackling Nigeria’s developmental issues, also featured a compelling address by Oluseun Onigbinde, Co-Founder and CEO of BudgIT, who turned the spotlight on the country’s political landscape.
Because I faced some hurdles during my campaign because I’m a woman, I had to make an effort to make a difference to erase that mentality that it’s only men that can do it
“We lose the nationalistic appeal if we make it about ‘our turn,’” he warned, critiquing the pervasive self-interest in Nigerian politics. “The politics we’re playing now in Nigeria is all about me and my people; it’s not a politics that develops a nation,” he added.
Onigbinde called for a paradigm shift, urging leaders to “eschew ethnicity for development” to pave the way for sustainable national advancement.
Attended by a diverse mix of policymakers, civil society figures, and engaged citizens, the event highlighted the urgent need for unity and purpose-driven governance.
Senator Garba’s reflections paired with Onigbinde’s sharp analysis offered a stark yet hopeful narrative—illuminating Nigeria’s challenges while pointing toward solutions rooted in equity and collective progress.
As the nation grapples with its intricate socio-political dynamics, these voices stand as clarion calls for a more inclusive and forward-looking future.
