Biography:
Aïssata Issoufou Mahamadou is a Nigerien chemist, chemical engineer, mining specialist, and healthcare advocate who served as the First Lady of the Republic of Niger from April 7, 2011, to April 2, 2021. She was born in Mainé-Soroa, a town in the Diffa Region of Niger. Aïssata Issoufou Mahamadou’s early education took place in Mainé-Soroa, and she later attended an all-girls high school in Niamey.
Aïssata Issoufou Mahamadou can be considered a trailblazer for women in Niger as she was among the first Nigerien women to pursue a career in the sciences. She earned her degree in mineral exploration and development from the École nationale supérieure de géologie (National School of Geology) in Nancy, France. Following that, she obtained her master’s degree in chemistry from the University of Niamey, which is now known as Abdou Moumouni University.
After completing her education, Aïssata Issoufou Mahamadou became the head of the mineralogy division of SOMAIR, the national mining company of Niger and a subsidiary of Areva. Her expertise in mining contributed significantly to the development and advancement of the mining sector in Niger.
Beyond her professional achievements, Aïssata Issoufou Mahamadou is known for her advocacy work in healthcare and poverty alleviation. She has been inspired by the teachings and principles of American civil rights leaders Martin Luther King Jr. and Coretta Scott King. In May 2012, she visited The King Center in Atlanta, where she met with its CEO, Bernice King, as part of her mission to seek support to address poverty and healthcare challenges in Niger.
In March 2018, Aïssata Issoufou Mahamadou collaborated with the Ministry of Health in Niger and the Merck Foundation to improve access to healthcare in the country. The partnership focused on areas such as oncology, diabetes, fertility services, and training. Aïssata Issoufou Mahamadou was also appointed as an Ambassador for the Merck More than a Mother campaign, which aimed to combat social stigmas surrounding infertility and childless women.
Furthermore, Aïssata Issoufou Mahamadou actively supported women’s empowerment and celebrated the achievements of women in Niger. In March 2019, she hosted the Miss Intellect Niger awards to commemorate International Women’s Day, recognizing and honoring the intellect and accomplishments of women in Niger.
Throughout her tenure as First Lady, Aïssata Issoufou Mahamadou made significant contributions to the advancement of healthcare, women empowerment, and poverty alleviation in Niger. Her dedication to improving the lives of people in her country has left a lasting impact.