The Association of Women Living with HIV/AIDS in Nigeria (ASWHAN) has elected a new eight-member State Executive Committee in Katsina State.
The election was held during the 2026 State Congress of ASWHAN, organised in collaboration with the Katsina State Agency for the Control of AIDS (KATSACA). The election was conducted by a committee chaired by Abdullahi Shu’aibu, with Ahmed Kabiru Galadima serving as Secretary.
Before voting began, Shu’aibu explained the election procedures, guidelines and rules to delegates. He stressed the importance of a transparent and orderly process, urging participants to follow the approved guidelines and respect the outcome of the election.
Barrister Sani Yahaya Wurma later led the swearing-in of the newly elected eight-member State Executive Committee. During the ceremony, the new officials took an oath to carry out their responsibilities faithfully and work towards the development of ASWHAN in Katsina State and Nigeria.
The Executive Secretary of KATSACA, Dr. Bala Nuhu Kankia, congratulated the newly elected officials and assured them of the Agency’s cooperation in pursuing the objectives of the association. He encouraged the new leadership to promote unity, support affected communities and strengthen efforts aimed at improving the wellbeing of women living with HIV/AIDS.
Kankia also commended Katsina State Governor, Dikko Umar Radda, for what he described as his continued support for KATSACA and programmes aimed at improving public health in the state. He said the Agency would continue to work with relevant partners and community organisations to advance health-related initiatives.
The newly elected State Coordinator of ASWHAN, Asiya Shehu, expressed appreciation to members and stakeholders for the confidence placed in the new leadership. She pledged to work with the executive committee to strengthen the association, promote the welfare of its members and support programmes that encourage access to healthcare, social support and greater community awareness.
Shehu also called for stronger cooperation among members, government agencies, health organisations and other stakeholders. She said the new leadership would seek to ensure that the concerns of women living with HIV/AIDS are properly represented while promoting dignity, inclusion and access to available support services.
Other members of the newly elected State Executive Committee are Binta Ahmad, Deputy Coordinator; Debora Dauda, Secretary; Bilkisu Garba, Assistant Secretary; Grace B. Magaji, Treasurer; Basariyya Haruna, Financial Secretary; Jamila Sani, Welfare Secretary; and Zainab Sada, Public Relations Officer.
The congress and election marked a new phase for ASWHAN in Katsina State, with the new leadership expected to work with KATSACA and other stakeholders to strengthen advocacy, community support and programmes that improve the wellbeing of women living with HIV/AIDS.