In Asaba, 76 masquerade trees are to be planted today in honour of the late Maryam Babangida, for her outstanding contributions towards the empowerment of Nigerian women.
The tree planting which is to be done by His Royal Majesty Joseph Edozien, the Asagba of Asaba and his cabinet is to draw public attention to the need to renew individual and collective commitment to the fight against climate change.
Obi Edozien, while unveiling a week’s programme of activities to commemorate the 2023 Mariam Babangida Day, 13 years after her demise, said the event was to bring to the fore her advocacy for women, particularly rural women.
Speaking through the Iyase of Asaba, Chief Patrick Onyeobi, at a press briefing in the palace, yesterday, the monarch said the people of Asaba valued and honoured the wife of the former Military President, Ibrahim Babangida, for being instrumental in siting Delta State capital in Asaba, against all odds.
The professor said Babangida’s late wife, who was born on November 1, 1947 and died on December 27, 2009, contributed immensely to national development, especially by setting up educational and small-scale enterprises to empower women.
He said: “Today, November 1, 2023 marks the birthday of Maryam Babangida. Every year, we celebrate one of Asaba’s most iconic.
“As first lady, Babangida had a dream and vision to bring greater recognition to women in our society, improve their lives and empower them.”
Chairperson of Maryam Babangida Memorial Day, Bridget Ayefolu, member of Delta State House of Assembly, said the late Babangida was an international figure, who meant well for not only Nigerian women but also African ladies, and for her laudable initiatives, the palace will come up with a book entitled, Maryam Ndidiamaka Babangida: 20 years after.”
|The Guardian
