By Ibraheem Damola
At just 27, Shamsiyyah Umar, a disability rights advocate from Nasarawa State, had already achieved an impressive academic milestone, earning three major university qualifications.
Her academic journey includes a BSc in International Studies, graduating with a CGPA of 3.99, an MSc in International Affairs and Diplomacy with a CGPA of 4.08, and a PhD in International Relations.
But behind these academic achievements is a story of resilience.
At the age of 10, Shamsiyyah became physically disabled following a road accident on Christmas Day. Growing up, she encountered accessibility challenges, social stigma and assumptions about what she could achieve.
Her mother, however, encouraged her to look beyond those limitations, believe in herself and pursue her education.
During her PhD journey, Shamsiyyah suffered another devastating loss when she lost her mother just months after beginning her doctoral programme.
Despite the grief and challenges that followed, she continued her studies and completed her PhD.
Her doctoral research examined UNICEF’s contribution to inclusive education for children with disabilities in Nigeria between 2015 and 2023.
Beyond academia, Shamsiyyah is also committed to disability advocacy. Through We Are Special Foundation, she works toward greater inclusion and opportunities for people living with disabilities.
Having experienced accessibility barriers herself, including difficulties navigating educational facilities, she has become an advocate for environments that better accommodate people with disabilities.
Today, her work focuses on creating opportunities through accessible technology, education, mentorship and essential services.
Her journey is a powerful reminder that disability should never determine the limits of a person’s potential.
BSc. MSc. PhD. Advocacy. Resilience. Purpose.
At 27, Shamsiyyah Umar had already transformed extraordinary challenges into a journey of academic achievement and service to others.
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