By Angela Tony Iji
In the evolving landscape of Nigerian politics, where women continue to break barriers and redefine leadership, one name is steadily gaining prominence across the northern region and beyond—Hajiya Ummusalma Isyaka Rabiu. A woman of influence, compassion, enterprise, and public service, she represents a new generation of female leaders combining grassroots mobilization with national relevance.
Fondly celebrated as “Jarumar Kasar Hausa” (Heroine of Hausa Land) and honored by the Daura Emirate Council as “Jaruman Matan Kasar Hausa” (Heroine of Hausa Women), Hajiya Ummusalma has emerged as one of the most visible female political figures in Northern Nigeria, carving a niche for herself through public service, philanthropy, entrepreneurship, and political engagement.
A Legacy Rooted in Service
Born into the distinguished family of the late Sheikh Isyaka Rabiu, one of Nigeria’s most respected businessmen, philanthropists, and Islamic scholars, Ummusalma inherited a tradition of generosity, integrity, and commitment to humanity.
Growing up within a family renowned for community service and nation-building exposed her early to the values of leadership and social responsibility. However, rather than merely relying on family influence, she has steadily built her own identity through hard work, strategic engagement, and meaningful impact. A graduate of Business Administration, she has also acquired several professional certifications in leadership, entrepreneurship, and business management, equipping her with the skills needed to excel in both public and private sectors.
From Boardroom Success to Public Leadership
Before stepping into the national political arena, Hajiya Ummusalma established herself as a successful entrepreneur.
She served as the Chief Executive Officer of USIR Ricemill Nigeria Limited and successfully managed other thriving ventures including Almakiyyu Sisters Nigeria Limited and Zahra Frozen Foods. Her business ventures not only contributed to economic growth but also created employment opportunities and empowered numerous individuals, particularly women and young people across Northern Nigeria.
This strong entrepreneurial foundation would later become instrumental in shaping her approach to governance, community development, and economic empowerment.
The Political Journey
Hajiya Ummusalma’s political journey is rooted in grassroots engagement rather than elite political entitlement. A committed member of the All-Progressives Congress (APC), she steadily gained recognition through her active participation in community mobilization, advocacy for inclusive governance, and support for policies aimed at improving the lives of ordinary Nigerians.
Known for her accessibility and ability to connect with people at the grassroots, she became a strong voice for women’s inclusion in politics and governance. Her political philosophy centers on creating opportunities for women and youth to participate meaningfully in nation-building while strengthening democratic institutions and community development initiatives.
Over the years, her growing influence within political circles has positioned her as one of the emerging female powerhouses in Northern Nigerian politics.
Leading Women in the CityBoy Movement
A defining chapter in her political career came with her emergence as the National Woman Leader of the CityBoy Movement (CBM).
The CityBoy Movement, a grassroots political organization known for mobilizing support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, entrusted her with the responsibility of coordinating and strengthening female participation across its nationwide structure. In this role, she has become a rallying point for women seeking greater political representation and economic empowerment.
Under her leadership, the movement has intensified efforts to mobilize women at the grassroots, promote political awareness, encourage female leadership, and strengthen support structures across various states of the federation. She has also championed the CityBoy Movement Women Dialogue Initiative, creating platforms for conversations around women’s leadership, political inclusion, economic empowerment, and national development.
As preparations gradually begin toward future electoral engagements, her strategic meetings and consultations across the country have further cemented her reputation as a formidable grassroots mobilizer.
Appointment to the FCCPC
In recognition of her leadership capabilities and public service record, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu nominated Hajiya Ummusalma Isyaka Rabiu as Executive Commissioner for Corporate Services at the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) in August 2025.
Following Senate confirmation in October 2025, she officially assumed office, joining the leadership team of one of Nigeria’s key regulatory agencies. As Executive Commissioner for Corporate Services, she plays a critical role in strengthening institutional efficiency, supporting organizational development, and contributing to the Commission’s mandate of protecting consumers while promoting fair competition within Nigeria’s economy.
The appointment represented not only a personal milestone but also a testament to the growing recognition of competent women in strategic national leadership positions.
Philanthropy: The Heart of Her Leadership
Beyond politics and public office, perhaps the most enduring aspect of Hajiya Ummusalma’s legacy lies in her humanitarian work.
Through the Ummusalma Isyaka Rabiu (USIR) Foundation, she has led numerous initiatives focused on education, skills acquisition, youth empowerment, poverty alleviation, and humanitarian support. The foundation has become a beacon of hope for vulnerable communities, particularly women, children, and underprivileged youth.
One of her most notable humanitarian interventions was the distribution of 10,000 blankets to underprivileged students and Almajirai across Northwestern Nigeria, helping vulnerable populations cope with harsh weather conditions while reinforcing a culture of compassion and care.
Through educational support programmes, empowerment initiatives, and welfare interventions, the USIR Foundation continues to impact thousands of lives across the region. Her philanthropic activities reflect a leadership style that prioritizes people, dignity, and sustainable community development.
Championing Women and Youth.
Throughout her public engagements, Hajiya Ummusalma has consistently advocated for greater participation of women and youth in governance. She believes that sustainable national development requires the active inclusion of all demographic groups, particularly those historically underrepresented in leadership structures. Her advocacy extends beyond speeches and political rhetoric. Through mentorship, empowerment programmes, leadership initiatives, and economic support mechanisms, she continues to create practical opportunities for women and young people to thrive.
These efforts have earned her widespread admiration and several recognitions, including the African Iconic Young Personality of the Year Award and an Award of Excellence in Philanthropy.
A New Face of Northern Leadership
At a time when Nigeria is seeking innovative, inclusive, and people-centered leadership, Hajiya Ummusalma Isyaka Rabiu represents a compelling example of what modern leadership can look like.
She seamlessly blends entrepreneurship, philanthropy, grassroots mobilization, and public administration while remaining connected to the communities she serves.
Her journey demonstrates that leadership is not merely about occupying positions but about creating impact, inspiring hope, and opening doors for others.
As her profile continues to rise nationally, many observers see in her the emergence of a political amazon whose influence may shape conversations around women, governance, youth development, and social impact for years to come.
For now, one thing is clear: Hajiya Ummusalma Isyaka Rabiu is not merely participating in Nigeria’s leadership story—she is steadily helping to write its next chapter.
