From Despair To Hope: Governor Abba Yusuf Adopts Ailing Law Graduate Ummi

Hauwa Yusuf, affectionately known as Ummi, is a 31-year-old woman who has lived with a rare and debilitating illness — muscular dystrophy — for the past 18 years. In spite of the daily challenges, she pushed forward and earned a law degree from Bayero University, Kano (BUK). Today, her condition has worsened to the point that she can barely walk unaided.

Coming from a low-income background, Ummi has faced significant barriers to receiving consistent medical care. Though muscular dystrophy is incurable, medical professionals agree that early and sustained treatment can greatly improve quality of life — something she has never had full access to.

Muhsin Ibrahim (@muhsin234), who has followed her story for two years, previously shared her case anonymously on X (formerly Twitter). Her perseverance moved him deeply, describing her story as both heartbreaking and inspiring.

At one point, Allen Onyema, the CEO of Air Peace, generously sponsored a short medical trip for her to India. Unfortunately, that effort couldn’t be sustained, and she was left to gradually deteriorate. That was the reality — until the night of May 18, 2025.

In a bold act of hope, Ummi reached out directly to Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf. She found his number, sent a heartfelt message — and to her surprise, he responded with compassion and urgency.

The governor met her personally and, deeply touched by her situation, promised to do all he could — going so far as to say he has “adopted” her as his daughter. This powerful act of empathy has brought new hope to Ummi and earned the governor widespread admiration.

“I had tried everything to get her help,” wrote @muhsin234, “but it was her direct message to the governor that finally opened the door we’d all been praying for.”

May Allah ease Ummi’s burden and reward Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf abundantly for his kindness and humanity.

– Credit: @muhsin234 on X
(formerly Twitter)