Aisha Bakari Gombi, a fearless hunter from northeastern Nigeria, is leading the charge in redefining the security landscape in the region. Known for her bravery and hunting prowess, Gombi has earned the nickname "Queen Hunter" for her role in fighting against Boko Haram.
Aisha's remarkable story, along with those of other women making a difference in security, took center stage at the American University of Nigeria (AUN) on March 5, 2025. The event featured a screening of a documentary by Rosie Collyer, a renowned British journalist and documentary filmmaker with a focus on conflict zones, human rights, and women's empowerment.
The event, which was followed by a thought-provoking panel discussion on the role of women in security, brought together journalists, academics, and security experts to explore the often-overlooked contributions of women in maintaining peace and stability.
AUN President Dr. DeWayne Frazier emphasized the university's commitment to creating safe and supportive spaces for women. "Women deserve a key role in security and education," he stated. "This institution today stands as a safe space for young women, and perhaps that's why we have more female students than male students."
Rosie Collyer highlighted women's crucial yet often underappreciated role in conflict resolution and peacekeeping. "Women bring a unique perspective to security," she noted. "Their instinct to protect their families naturally extends to their communities, making them powerful agents of peace and security."
Blessing Tunoh, a renowned journalist, emphasized the need to break stereotypes about women's roles in the military. "Women in the military have so much more to offer," she argued. "Their skills, intelligence, and strategic capabilities are invaluable. Limiting them to domestic roles not only undermines their potential but also weakens the effectiveness of our security forces."
AUN faculty Dr. Peter Genger, a peace and conflict theorist, addressed the broader societal implications of security, reflecting on collective responsibility. "Women's involvement in security is essential because their instinct to protect their families extends to their communities, making them crucial in peacebuilding efforts."
The discussion resonated strongly with the audience, which included students, faculty, and staff. Participants engaged in a dynamic Q&A session, raising concerns about the barriers women face in security roles and discussing practical steps for increasing female representation in peacekeeping and law enforcement.
The panelists also recommended greater inclusion of women in security, leadership, and security decision-making processes. They emphasized the importance of media in changing societal perceptions of women in security.
Reported by Pwagreno Blessing Moris