During the Senate screening of ministerial nominees on Tuesday, Hannatu Musawa, a nominee from Katsina State, could not hold back her emotions as she broke down in tears while introducing herself and summarizing her resume. Musawa, a lawyer and the current presidential adviser on culture and entertainment economy, revealed her humble background and the struggles her family endured to ensure she received an education.
She tearfully shared that she comes from a poor family that struggled to make ends meet, and her father, Musa Musawa, a politician, sold kolanut to sponsor her education before he passed away. Musawa expressed her regret that her father couldn’t witness her nomination for the ministerial appointment, despite all the hardships he endured for her.
The emotional nominee mentioned that she began her political career with the Buhari Foundation in 2022. Some senators present showed their empathy and support by chanting, “It’s okay.”
The Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, then stopped her from continuing her address, explaining that she only needed to summarize her resume. Adamawa North Senator, Elisha Abbo, commended President Bola Tinubu for nominating seven women as ministers-designate and requested that Ms. Musawa be allowed to leave the Senate chamber without further questions.
Senator Kawu Sumaila of Kano South also supported Abbo’s request, and after a vote, the senators unanimously agreed to let Ms. Musawa “take a bow and go.” The emotional nominee then left the Senate chamber without answering any additional questions.
The touching display of emotions by Ms. Musawa highlights the dedication and sacrifices many Nigerians from humble backgrounds make to achieve their goals and aspirations. Her nomination and potential appointment as a minister reflect the potential for individuals from all walks of life to serve their country at the highest level of government.
