Senator Nenadi Esther Usman (born November 12, 1966, in Jos, Plateau State, Nigeria) is a distinguished Nigerian politician and public servant with a career spanning several decades. She has held significant positions in both state and federal capacities, contributing notably to Nigeria’s political and economic landscape
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Early Life and Education
Senator Nenadi Usman was born on November 12, 1966, in Jos, Plateau State. She had her early education at the Federal Government College, Jos, and obtained her West African School Certificate in 1982. She later proceeded to Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, where she earned a Bachelor’s degree in Geography in 1986.
She holds a Postgraduate Diploma in Management from the University of Jos and a Master’s Degree in Strategy and Security Administration from the Nigerian Defence Academy, Kaduna. She is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Geography at ABU Zaria.
Early Career
Nenadi Usman began her professional journey as a Geography teacher at Government Secondary School, Kagoro, in Kaduna State. Her transition into public service saw her take on various roles, including:
- Managing Director of Dana Ventures
- Executive Adviser for Youth and Sports, Kaduna State (1992)
- Executive Adviser for Information, Home Affairs, and Culture (1993)
- Principal Personnel Officer at the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) (1994–1998)
Political Career
Her political journey began with involvement in the National Republican Convention (NRC), where she was part of the Kaduna State Caucus. In 1998, she was elected into the House of Representatives, representing the Kachia/Kagarko Federal Constituency under the United Nigeria Congress Party (UNCP).
In Kaduna State, she served in several commissioner roles:
- Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development (1999–2002)
- Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources (2002)
- Commissioner for Health (2002–2003)
At the federal level, she was appointed Minister of State for Finance and later served as Nigeria’s Minister of Finance during President Olusegun Obasanjo’s administration. Her tenure focused on fiscal reforms and strengthening institutions such as the Customs Service and the Fiscal Responsibility Commission.
In 2011, she was elected Senator for Kaduna South Senatorial District under the platform of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), serving until 2015. During her tenure, she advocated strongly for women’s and children’s rights and addressed issues related to water, health, and unemployment.
Leadership in Labour Party
In September 2024, Nenadi Usman made a significant return to frontline politics when she was appointed the Chairman of the Labour Party National Caretaker Committee. Her appointment made her the first female national chairman of a major political party in Nigeria. She currently plays a crucial role in uniting the party and preparing it for future elections.
Personal Life
Senator Nenadi Usman was married to the late HRH Dr. Sa’ad Usman, Emir of Jere in Kaduna State, who passed away in March 2020. She is a proud mother of three children and is known for her calm demeanor, intellect, and resilience in public service.
Advocacy and Philanthropy
Senator Usman is passionate about women’s empowerment and has championed various initiatives across Northern Nigeria. She founded the Education and Empowerment Centre for Women, which provides education, vocational training, and support for women in underprivileged communities.
She also chairs the Coalition of NGOs for Women Development in Kaduna State, a platform committed to policy advocacy and grassroots mobilization for women and youth development.
Public Engagement
Senator Usman maintains a presence on social media where she shares insights on governance, social justice, and her political engagements. She continues to be a strong voice for equity, transparency, and national unity.
Legacy
Senator Nenadi Esther Usman’s life is a testament to her unwavering commitment to service, justice, and development. From her roots as an educator to her rise as a federal minister, senator, and now party leader, she remains a symbol of strength, intellect, and progress in Nigerian politics.
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