Dr. Nenadi Esther Usman is a distinguished leader known for her unwavering commitment to public service. She holds a Doctorate in Geography from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, and a Master’s Degree in Strategy and Security Management.

Dr. Usman began her career as a classroom teacher, demonstrating her commitment to education. She later served as an Executive Advisor for Youths and Sports in the Kaduna State government, advocating for policies that empowered young people. She also held the position of Executive Advisor on Information, Home Affairs, and Culture before being appointed to consecutive roles as Hon. Commissioner for Women Affairs, Environment, and Health, where she led initiatives focused on community development and public welfare.

Dr. Usman’s dedication to humanitarian causes has been evident in her impactful leadership as the Honorable Minister of Finance under President Olusegun Obasanjo and in her advocacy for human rights during her tenure as a Senator representing Kaduna South in the seventh National Assembly. Her commitment to empowering marginalized groups, especially women and children, remains central to her work.

Through her non-profit organization, the Education and Empowerment Centre for Women (EECW), established in 2005, Dr. Usman has transformed many lives. EECW’s economic empowerment programs provide vocational training that equips women with tools for financial independence. Also, its reproductive health initiatives, with a special focus on epilepsy awareness and support, have benefited over 1,000 individuals.

Dr. Usman has extensive corporate experience. She has served as Chairman of Thomas Wyatt Northern Nigeria Ltd and is currently a Non-Executive Director at Thomas Wyatt Plc, Nigeria Breweries Plc, and Premium Pension Ltd. She also serves as Chairman of Bunkasa Micro Finance Bank and Plumstead Investments Limited.

Dr. Nenadi Usman’s participation in leadership programs at Oxford University, the University of Chicago Booth School of Business, and The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania underscores her commitment to continuous personal growth and impactful humanitarian work. Her legacy is marked by a tireless pursuit of equality and community development.

It is my pleasure to welcome you to the Education and Empowerment Centre for Women (EECW). At EECW, we believe that empowering women is key to transforming communities and shaping a better future. Guided by our mission, which is aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, we are dedicated to equipping women, particularly in rural areas—with the education, skills, and opportunities they need to thrive.

Through our vocational training programs, business start-up support, health initiatives, educational projects and community development projects, we are creating sustainable pathways for women to overcome challenges and become active agents of positive change.

Dr. Usman’s dedication to humanitarian causes has been evident in her impactful leadership as the Honorable Minister of Finance under President Olusegun Obasanjo and in her advocacy for human rights during her tenure as a Senator representing Kaduna South in the seventh National Assembly. Her commitment to empowering marginalized groups, especially women and children, remains central to her work.

On behalf of our founders and dedicated team, I invite you to explore our work, partner with us, and join in this shared vision of empowering women as catalysts for transformation.

Ben Dankaka
Program Officer
Education and Empowerment Centre for Women (EECW)