Nenadi Esther Usman, born on November 12, 1966, in Jos, Plateau State, Nigeria, is a renowned politician, educator, and advocate for women’s empowerment. She has held prominent positions in Nigerian politics, including serving as Minister of Finance and Senator for Kaduna South Senatorial District. Her dedication to public service, education, and human rights has earned her widespread recognition.
Profile Summary
| Full Name | Nenadi Esther Usman |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | November 12, 1966 |
| Place of Birth | Jos, Plateau State, Nigeria |
| Nationality | Nigerian |
| Partner | Late HRH Dr. Sa’ad Usman |
| Children | Four |
| State of Origin | Kaduna State |
| Occupations | Politician, Educator, Advocate |
| Net Worth | N/A |
Early Life and Education
Nenadi Usman grew up in Jos and Kagoro under Nigeria’s military rule, which inspired her commitment to civil service.
She attended Federal Government College in Jos, where she obtained her West African School Certificate in 1982. Following this, she completed her IJMB (A-Level) at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, in 1983. Usman then pursued her Bachelor of Science degree in Geography from Ahmadu Bello University, graduating in 1986.
She furthered her education by obtaining multiple postgraduate degrees, including a Master’s in Geography from Ahmadu Bello University, a Postgraduate Diploma in Management from the University of Jos, and a Master’s in Strategy and Security Administration from the Nigerian Defense Academy. Her academic achievements culminated in earning a Doctorate in Geography.
Career
Usman began her professional journey as a geography teacher at Government Secondary School in Kagoro, Kaduna State. Her passion for education and empowerment led her to establish the “Education and Empowerment Centre for Women,” an NGO focused on improving women’s lives.
Political Career
Nenadi Usman entered politics during Nigeria’s transition to democracy in 1989. She served as a member of Kaduna State Caucus of the National Republican Convention and later held various advisory roles in Kaduna State Government.
Her notable political roles include serving as Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Commissioner for Environment & Natural Resources, and Commissioner for Health.
She was appointed Minister of State for Finance and later Minister of Finance under President Olusegun Obasanjo’s administration from 2006 to 2007. During her tenure, she reformed Nigeria’s financial institutions and contributed to establishing the Fiscal Responsibility Commission.
In 2011, Usman was elected Senator for Kaduna South under the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), becoming the first female senator from the North West geopolitical zone.
As a senator, she championed legislation addressing issues affecting women, children, and underserved communities.
Corporate Roles
Usman has also excelled in corporate governance, serving as a Non-Executive Director at Nigeria Breweries Plc and holding chairmanship positions at Thomas Wyatt & Sons, Bunkasa Microfinance Bank, and Plumstead Investments Limited.
Personal Life
Nenadi Usman was married to HRH Dr. Sa’ad Usman, the Emir of Jere in Kaduna State, who passed away in March 2020. Together, they had four children.
Nenadi Usman Net Worth
While Nenadi Usman’s exact net worth is not publicly disclosed, her extensive career in politics, education advocacy, corporate leadership, and public service suggests significant financial standing.
Nenadi Usman’s life exemplifies dedication to leadership, empowerment, and societal development. Her contributions have left an indelible mark on Nigerian politics and advocacy for marginalized groups.
