By Dada Ahmed.
Miss Nollywood International, Queen Hassana Ozohu Salisu, is stepping into a new role—one that aligns her platform with social justice.
The Queen is doing this laudable programme in an inspiring fusion of beauty, advocacy, and leadership in partnership with the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offenses Commission (ICPC).
Salisu is spearheading a campaign aimed at tackling corruption and sexual harassment in higher institutions across Nigeria.
This bold initiative not only highlights her commitment to combating societal issues but also serves as a beacon of hope for students facing abuse and exploitation within the educational system.
The collaboration between Miss Nollywood International and the ICPC is more than just a symbolic partnership; it is a concerted effort to address deep-rooted problems in the nation’s academic environment.
The ICPC, an anti-corruption body, has made the fight against corruption in the education sector one of its primary missions. By joining forces with Miss Nollywood International, Salisu brings a high-profile voice to this cause, encouraging students to take a stand and fight for their rights.
“Education should be a space of growth, empowerment, and dignity. It is not a place for corruption or abuse.
“I want to use my platform to be the voice of those who feel voiceless, especially the students who have been subjected to harassment and exploitation by those who are supposed to be mentors,”Salisu said in a recent interview.
A key aspect of this partnership is the emphasis on giving students the tools and confidence to report cases of misconduct, including sexual harassment and exploitation, without fear of retribution. In an environment where students often feel powerless, the Miss Nollywood management team assures of its commitment to ensuring that complaints are addressed confidentially and swiftly.
“We want to make it clear that students no longer need to suffer in silence. If you are a student facing harassment or know of someone who is, don’t hesitate to reach out. You can contact us anonymously through our social media channels or via email. Your privacy and safety are our top priority,”Salisu stressed.
This message of hope is particularly important in the face of systemic issues where students have been discouraged in the past from speaking out against abusive lecturers or staff due to fears of academic retaliation.
The impact of this initiative has already been felt in concrete ways.
In a landmark move, four lecturers from the Federal University Lokoja (FUL) were recently dismissed after investigations into allegations of sexual harassment and examination misconduct preferred against them, according to media report
The report adds that the university’s governing council approved the dismissal after thorough investigations, sending a strong signal that such behavior will not be tolerated.
Miss Nollywood Queen Hassana Ozohu Salisu was quick to commend the governing council and Vice Chancellor of FUL for their decisive action. “This is a step in the right direction. We must stamp out acts that cause educational backwardness and abuse of power. Students deserve to study in an environment free from fear and harassment,”she said.
Salisu’s campaign is not just about addressing individual cases; it is about creating systemic change within Nigerian universities. By partnering with the ICPC, Miss Nollywood International is encouraging institutions across the country to take proactive measures to safeguard the rights and well-being of their students. This includes implementing stricter policies against harassment, ensuring accountability for errant staff members, and creating more robust support systems for students.
For students who may feel hesitant to approach school authorities directly, Salisu assures them that there is another route for their voices to be heard. Through her platform, students can confidentially report violations to the Miss Nollywood management team, who will work with the appropriate bodies to ensure that justice is served.
“We are here for you. You do not have to suffer in silence anymore.Together, we can build a safer, more just educational system for everyone,”Salisu affirmed. ”
It is instructive to note that Miss Nollywood International, Salisu’s role as a beauty queen is inseparable from her advocacy. In a world where the entertainment and fashion industries often shape public perception, Salisu is therefore using her visibility to promote meaningful change. Her involvement in such causes underscores the power of the entertainment world to not just entertain, but to also serve as a platform for social transformation.
“I believe beauty is not just about what is on the outside. True beauty comes from using your influence to help others and make a positive impact. “This partnership with ICPC is an opportunity for me to combine my role as a beauty queen with my desire to make a real difference in the lives of students across Nigeria.”Salisu said.
Salisu’s partnership with the ICPC marks a new era of accountability and justice within Nigeria’s educational institutions. Through her bold leadership and unwavering commitment to protecting students’ rights, she is setting a powerful example of how individuals can use their platforms to drive positive social change.
As Salisu continues her mission to combat corruption and end sexual harassment in Nigerian universities, her efforts serve as an important reminder that ,no one, no matter his or her status or position in the societ, is above the law.
With the support of the ICPC and a growing network of advocates, Miss Nollywood International is paving the way for a brighter, safer future for students across the nation.