The Cultural Attaché of the Islamic Republic of Iran in Nigeria aims to empower institutions and organizations active in the field of women's issues in Nigeria, especially those aligned with the rich culture of Shia Islam and the teachings of the Ahlul Bayt (AS). They have initiated the identification of such groups and institutions across the country.

One such active institution is the Al-Zahra Society in Nigeria, founded in 2023 by a group of Muslim Shia university professors in the states of Kano and Kaduna. The Cultural Attaché plans to support and strengthen this organization, transforming it into a reference and practical body, through educational and workshop programs throughout the year.

In this context, based on the proposal from the head of this organization, Dr. Fatemeh Ismail, a series of regular programs will be organized to raise awareness and enhance the general and social knowledge of women. By God's grace, the fifth educational workshop of this group, titled "The Psychological Impact of Divorce and Widowhood on Women's Health in Nigeria," was held by Dr. Isma’u Mukhtar Sahabi.

At the opening ceremony of this session, Mr. Majid Kamrani, our Cultural Attaché, welcomed the participants and stated that the issues of divorce and widowhood are very evident in Nigeria, accounting for a significant percentage of social occurrences. Therefore, scholars and experienced individuals must propose local and religious solutions to address this problem and encourage women to implement them, ensuring the well-being of families and society.

Furthermore, the keynote speaker, Dr. Isma’u Mukhtar Sahabi, discussed stress-inducing events, focusing on divorce and widowhood and their psychological effects on women. She pointed out various solutions, including spiritual and religious strategies to overcome these challenges, encouraging participants to place their trust in God during difficult times. Dr. Isma’u also emphasized several coping strategies such as self-care, regular recitation of the Quran, exercise, skill development, education, entrepreneurship, and independence.

It is noteworthy that 115 participants attended this virtual session.

November 2024
Cultural Attaché of the Islamic Republic of Iran in Nigeria