Celebrating Aisha Yesufu’s Remarkable Journey on Her Birthday
By: Peter Ritdung Wakkias
Aisha Somtochukwu Yesufu, born on December 12, 1973, in Kano State, Nigeria, is not just an ordinary figure; she is a symbol of resilience, courage, and unwavering commitment to social justice.
As she turns 50, it’s an opportune time to reflect on her impactful life and contributions.
Aisha’s journey, marked by her early challenges growing up as a girl in a patriarchal environment, has become a source of inspiration.
Overcoming societal barriers, she pursued education at Bayero University Kano, earning a degree in microbiology. Her love for books and the pursuit of knowledge served as beacons of hope during her childhood, opening her eyes to a world beyond her immediate surroundings.
A pivotal moment in Aisha’s life was her involvement in co-founding the #BringBackOurGirls movement. This initiative brought international attention to the abduction of over 200 girls by Boko Haram in 2014. Aisha, alongside Oby Ezekwesili, took a courageous stand, advocating for the rescue of the kidnapped schoolgirls.
Additionally, Aisha has been at the forefront of the End SARS movement, addressing police brutality in Nigeria. Her iconic image wearing a hijab during an End SARS protest has become synonymous with the fight for justice.
Aisha’s dedication to creating a better world for her children and future generations echoes in her powerful statement, “I will not be an irresponsible parent and leave this fight for my children.”
Recognizing her impactful contributions, Aisha Yesufu received well-deserved accolades, including being named among BBC’s 100 Women in 2020 and being listed in the Top 100 Most Influential Africans by New African magazine.
Beyond her activism, Aisha is a loving wife to Aliu, whom she married in 1998, and a devoted mother to their two children.
As we celebrate Aisha Yesufu’s birthday, let us honor her resilience, fearlessness, and commitment to justice. Her journey is not just a personal milestone but a beacon for change and a testament to the power of one individual’s voice in shaping a better world.