Maryam Uwais

Biography

Maryam Uwais was born in 1959 in Kano, Nigeria. She studied law and became a barrister and solicitor. She has worked extensively on children's rights, access to justice, and social protection. She served as Special Adviser to the President on Social Investments under Muhammadu Buhari, overseeing major social investment programmes including the National Social Investment Programme (NSIP).

She has been involved in legal reform, including work on the Child Rights Act and on access to justice for the poor. She has also worked with international organisations on governance and human rights.

Historical Context

Nigeria has one of the world's largest populations of out-of-school children and significant poverty. Maryam Uwais has been at the forefront of efforts to expand social protection, strengthen child protection, and improve access to justice for vulnerable groups.

What She Fought For

Maryam Uwais has fought for children's rights, social justice, and legal reform in Nigeria. She has advocated for evidence-based social investment and for the rights of the poor and marginalised.

Major Achievements

• Special Adviser to the President on Social Investments (2015–2023); oversaw NSIP
• Leading advocate for children's rights and the Child Rights Act; legal reform work
• Work on access to justice and social protection; international recognition

Her Impact Today

Maryam Uwais remains a leading voice for social justice, children's rights, and effective governance in Nigeria.

Sources: Wikipedia, Nigerian government