Prof. Aisha Maikudi: A Woman of Courage Challenging the Status Quo

In a world where women's rights have been fought for tirelessly, it's disheartening to see Prof. Aisha Maikudi, the acting Vice Chancellor of the University of Abuja, being attacked for her gender. Despite her impressive credentials and achievements, she's being denied the opportunity to become the substantive Vice Chancellor simply because she's a woman.

We must remember the brave women and men who paved the way for Prof. Maikudi's generation. Elizabeth Cady Stanton, Lucretia Mott, and Frederick Douglass, among others, fought tirelessly for women's suffrage, standing against the 15th amendment and demanding that women have a seat at the decision-making table. Their struggles and perseverance have inspired generations of women to strive for excellence and challenge the status quo.

In recent months, Prof. Maikudi has faced intense scrutiny, with many who should be supporting her instead flooding the headlines with attempts to discredit her. Despite this, she remains steadfast, a testament to her strength and resilience. As Maya Angelou so eloquently put it, "You may write me down in history / With your bitter, twisted lies, / You may trod me in the very dirt / But still, like dust, I'll rise". Prof. Maikudi's determination and courage in the face of adversity are a shining example of this spirit.

But here's the thing: Prof. Maikudi is not just any woman. She's a trailblazer, a woman who dares to challenge the old status quo. At just 40 years old, she's already achieved what many can only dream of. She's a professor of International Law, and her vast educational training abroad has equipped her with the skills and knowledge to take on any challenge.

As the play "Failure is Impossible" so aptly puts it, the struggle for women's rights is far from over. However, with women like her leading the charge, we can be hopeful for a brighter future. A future where women are treated with dignity and respect, and where they're given the opportunities they deserve.