Professor Ummu Ahmed Jalingo, the first female Professor of Economics in Northern Nigeria, has said that marriage should not prevent women from achieving their ambitions.
She made the remarks in Kano at the Inspiring Leadership Reflection Interactive Series (ILERIS), organised by the Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD).
Prof. Jalingo, who married at 16, recalled her journey from modest beginnings to becoming a professor of economics.
“The journey to reach the peak is never easy, whether you are a man or a woman, but it is even more difficult when you are a woman. With resolve, commitment and determination, you can navigate through successfully,” she said.
She also spoke about her father’s role in her education.
“When my father enrolled me in school, he used to call me ‘my doctor daughter’ because he wanted me to become a medical doctor,” she said.
Although she did not become a doctor, Prof. Jalingo said she attained a greater goal.
“I am happy I have fulfilled my father’s dream of being educated. I did not become a medical doctor, but I am a Professor of Economics and the first female to attain that position from Northern Nigeria,” she said.
She added that marriage is not a limitation for determined women.
“Marriage doesn’t stop a woman from fulfilling her dreams. I got married at the age of 16, but today I am a Professor of Economics. Just be organized, committed and prayerful,” she said.
Prof. Jalingo has lectured at Bayero University, Kano (BUK) for over three decades and currently serves as a Non-Executive Director on the Board of the Central Bank of Nigeria.