Reflecting on the life of Maryam Ibrahim Babangida, the former First Lady of Nigeria, whose impact transcended the political sphere. Her commitment to social causes, dedication to women’s empowerment, and unwavering support for her husband, Ibrahim Babangida, left an indelible mark on the nation. Baba Yunus Muhammad remembers a remarkable woman whose legacy continues to inspire positive change.
In the tapestry of Nigeria’s history, certain individuals emerge as beacons of inspiration and catalysts for change. Maryam Ibrahim Babangida, often fondly remembered as the “Nigerian First Lady with a Difference,” occupies a significant place in the hearts of many Nigerians. Her life was marked by grace, charisma, and an unwavering commitment to social causes.
As we reflect on her legacy, we delve into the various facets of Maryam Ibrahim Babangida’s life, exploring her role as a trailblazer, philanthropist, and advocate for women’s rights.
Born on November 1, 1948, in Asaba, in the now Delta State of Nigeria, Maryam Ibrahim Babangida, was destined for greatness from an early age. Her innate grace and elegance became evident as she grew into a young woman. Her poise and charisma were not only visible in her public appearances but also in her private life.
As the wife of General Ibrahim Babangida, President and Commander in Chief of the Nigerian Armed Forces from 1985 to 1993, Maryam carried herself with dignity and became a symbol of sophistication, through her immense qualities of care and compassion for, commitment and sensitivity to, the situation of the less privileged in society. She was widely praised for her single-minded determination to bring the plight of rural women, often neglected in the urban domination of national issues, to the forefront of public concern.
Similarly, her vigorous campaigns on behalf of the disabled, and against the use of drugs among Nigeria’s younger generation, became a testimony that the position of First Lady could be transformed from one of comfort, vanity and complacency to a platform for active participation in nation-building. Maryam was unrivalled as the first to venture beyond the traditional role of patron of charities and women’s organizations, into the more challenging field of active campaigns and advocacy on behalf of society’s less fortunate.
When Maryam Babangida became Nigeria’s eighth First Lady on August 27, 1985, probably, only a few had any inkling that she would be revolutionizing the institution of the First Ladyship to unfold its enormous potential for public good. After eight years of her tenure, she did just that, to the pleasant surprise of Nigerians and with a charm and grace that was exclusively hers.
Surely, and steadily, she applied the gentle strokes of a peaceful, persuasive advocate to that sector of society which she aptly described as “the domestic side of the polity”. Her most ingenious master stroke was the Better Life for Rural Women Program, which, by any stretch of the imagination, was a quiet revolution that redefined the entire spectrum of life for Nigerian women and those who dwelled in the rural areas.
Under this program, the vast majority of rural women and, indeed men, voluntarily mobilized themselves into functional co-operatives to pursue the benefits of communal joint-effort and self-help. Practically, every field of human endeavor in agriculture, craft and art was covered by the co-operatives; and with easier access to soft loans and grants as well as the goodwill of the First Lady, they increasingly acquired simple new technologies – gari friers, corn and rice mills, cassava graters, fish smoking devices, etc – and building, training and leisure facilities such as communal health centers, women resource centers and day-care centers to improve their lot.
The entire countryside was awash in a new awareness as a result of the Better Life Program. From Nigeria, she championed women issues vigorously and reached out to the First Ladies of other African countries to emphasize the effective role they can play in improving the lives of their people.
Maryam’s influence extended beyond the traditional role of a First Lady. She was a trailblazer, redefining the expectations placed on women in Nigerian society. Her commitment to education, health, and social welfare marked a departure from conventional roles, establishing her as a transformative figure in the nation’s history.
That the Better Life Programme for Rural Women made significant contributions to improving the lives of women in rural Nigeria is an understatement. It empowered women through education, skills training, and access to resources, leading to increased food production, improved healthcare, and enhanced economic opportunities. The program remains a notable example of Maryam Babangida’s commitment to social development and women’s empowerment in Nigeria.
Maryam recognized the pivotal role education could play in empowering individuals and communities. Her passion for education manifested in various initiatives aimed at improving access to quality education across Nigeria. Her efforts in championing the cause of education also led to the establishment of the National Commission for Mass Literacy, Adult, and Non-Formal Education. Maryam’s vision went beyond conventional schooling, emphasizing the importance of literacy and skills development for all, irrespective of age or background.
Maryam Babangida’s philanthropic endeavors extended to the realm of healthcare. The creation of the “Pet Project” marked a turning point in the healthcare landscape of Nigeria. Through this initiative, she advocated for improved maternal and child healthcare, pushing for policies that addressed the unique health challenges faced by women and children.
The “Breast Cancer Awareness” campaign, a flagship project of the Pet Project, brought attention to a critical health issue affecting women. Maryam’s efforts to destigmatize discussions around breast cancer and promote early detection played a pivotal role in raising awareness and saving lives. Her commitment to healthcare left an indelible mark, laying the foundation for future initiatives focused on improving the well-being of Nigerians.
Maryam Ibrahim Babangida was a fervent advocate for the rights and empowerment of women. She believed that empowering women was key to unlocking the full potential of society. Her initiatives sought to address the unique challenges faced by women, from education and healthcare to economic opportunitie s. She recognized that empowering women was not just a moral imperative but a strategic investment in the nation’s future.
Her advocacy also extended to issues such as gender fairness and domestic violence. By speaking out on these issues, Maryam Ibrahim Babangida contributed to changing societal norms and fostering an environment where women could thrive.
Maryam Babangida was renowned for her impeccable fashion sense and style. She became an icon, not only in Nigeria but also globally, for her elegant and sophisticated fashion choices. Her distinctive outfits not only displayed her impeccable taste but also promoted Nigerian fashion designers, contributing significantly to the growth of the fashion industry.
Maryam Babangida was also known for her commitment to the institution of marriage and her loyalty and dedication to her husband, Ibrahim Babangida. Their marriage was a prominent aspect of their public life in Nigeria. A friend who once accompanied this writer on a visit to the General describes the late former first lady thus, “I remember her very well: tall, serene serving her husband and his friends at table all by herself, as though she had no housemaids! That, to me, was clearly a sign of unadulterated love for her husband, honor, humility and respect for tradition”.
It was indeed, remarkable that Maryam Babangida still found time besides her challenging domestic and public responsibilities, first, as a housewife and secondly, as First Lady of the most populous and complex country in Africa to cultivate her literary appetites. In September 1988, she made her debut in the hallowed world of authors with The Home Front, a candid profile of the life of army officers’ wives. The book, the first by any First Lady before her, was acclaimed by critics and the public alike as a work of exemplary sensitivity.
Her second book: Nigeria’s First Ladies – Life in the State House, published in 1990 was a historical tribute to previous Nigerian First Ladies whose valuable roles as the stabilizing force behind the nation’s most powerful citizen had hitherto been ignored by writers and historians alike.
Maryam Babangida successfully established a glamorous persona, and by and large, the “Maryam Phenomenon” became a celebrity and an icon of beauty, fashion and style in Nigeria and beyond. Writing about the opening of the seven-day Better Life Fair in 1990, one journalist remarked that “she was like a Roman empress on a throne, regal and resplendent in a stone-studded flowing outfit that defied description.” Women responded to her as a role model, and her appeal lasted long after her husband left office in 1993 till her last day on earth.
For her relentless services to humanity Maryam received several awards, prominent among them was the prestigious Africa Prize for Leadership for the Sustainable End of Hunger in London on 19th September, 1991.
LIFE AFTER 1993
One would have thought that her passion for empowering the underprivileged and the rural woman would have waned when her husband left office in 1993, but rather, Maryam Babangida remained steadfast, and continued to be involved in various social and philanthropic activities in Nigeria. As a woman of influence in a patriarchal society, Maryam became a role model for women across Nigeria. She used her platform to advocate for gender fairness, encouraging women to pursue their dreams and aspirations. Maryam’s Islamic beliefs reinforced her commitment to children’s issues, empowering women, and advocating for their well-being and empowerment. In addition to all these preoccupations she had her pet educational project in Minna, El Amin International School and other cottage businesses to worry about.
Probably, not known to many Nigerians, throughout her post-First Lady years Maryam Babangida was also engaged in a quiet Islamic proselytization work within rural communities in Niger State and beyond, spreading the principles of Islam and promoting its teachings. This aspect of her work reflected her deep commitment to her faith and her desire to share its positive impact with others. In the rural communities, Maryam recognized the importance of providing spiritual guidance and support to individuals who may have limited access to religious resources. She believed that embracing Islam could bring about positive change in people’s lives and communities, and she actively sought to create opportunities for this transformation.
Maryam’s quiet proselytization work involved organizing Islamic awareness campaigns, hosting religious gatherings, and supporting the construction of mosques and schools in rural areas. By doing so, she created spaces where individuals could come together, learn about Islam, and deepen their understanding of the religion’s principles. Through these initiatives, Maryam aimed to empower individuals to live their lives in accordance with Islamic values. She believed that by embracing Islam, individuals would find solace, guidance, and a sense of purpose.
Maryam created a holistic impact on the lives of those she reached through the integration of her quiet proselytization work into her overall philanthropic efforts. It is however, important to note that her proselytization work was done with respect for the diversity of beliefs within the communities she served. She approached her work with inclusivity, recognizing and respecting people’s individual choices. Her intention was to offer guidance and support rather than impose her beliefs on others.
Until her death on the 27th of December, 2009, Maryam was known for her unwavering support for widows. She recognized the challenges faced by widows, who often struggle with financial stability, social isolation, and emotional distress. She diligently worked to address these issues and provide assistance to widows in need. Her support for widows encompassed various initiatives, including the establishment of programs that provided financial aid, skills training, and emotional counseling. Maryam’s support for widows helped restored dignity to their lives, gave them a sense of hope, enabling them to become self-sufficient and active contributors to society.
Her journey on earth, shaped by her faith in Islam, exemplifies the power of compassion, education, and empowerment. From her philanthropic initiatives to her advocacy for women’s rights, Maryam’s contributions have left an indelible mark on Nigerian society and would, certainly, inspire generations to come. Her generosity positively impacted countless lives, uplifting the less privileged and providing them with essential resources and opportunities. She exemplified the true essence of leadership, using her position to drive positive change and uplift the lives of those in need. Her memory serves as a reminder of the transformative potential of a life dedicated to service and the influence of Islam in shaping one’s character.
As we remember Maryam Ibrahim Babangida, we honor her remarkable legacy. Her grace, elegance, and tireless efforts to empower women, improve education and healthcare, and uplift society will forever be etched in our hearts. May her legacy continue to inspire us to create a better world, one filled with compassion, empathy, and impactful change.
“O Allah, forgive Hajiya Maryam Babangida, have mercy upon her, overlook her faults, and admit her into the spacious gardens of Your Paradise. Make her grave a place of rest and comfort from the gardens of Paradise. O Allah, purify her from sins and transgressions as a white garment is cleansed from impurities. Grant her a place among the people of Paradise and reunite us with her in the highest level of Paradise. Amen.”
Baba Yunus Muhammad is the President, Africa Islamic Economic Foundation, Ghana.
