Bello M Dansumaila
THE NORTHERN STAR IS STILL SHINING BRIGHTLY ACROSS NIGERIA
Like the Northern Star that steadfastly holds its place in the heavens, Hajiya Dr. Maryam Sani Abacha has emerged as a luminous beacon of grace, strength, and unwavering dignity in the narrative of Nigeria. As her 78th birthday was celebrated on March 4, 2025, we find ourselves not merely counting the years of her life but rather honouring a legacy woven with threads of compassion, eloquence, and visionary leadership that has deeply influenced our national fabric.
Born Maryam Jiddah in Kaduna on March 4, 1947, to Sheikh Muhammad Jiddah and Nana Ya Gumsu Nasara, a distinguished Kanuri princess of the Borno Emirate, she grew up immersed in a rich heritage of Islamic scholarship and royal elegance. This unique heritage provided her with a profound cultural depth that would shape her character and pursuits throughout her life. Her early education at Tudun Wada Primary School in Sabon Gari, Zaria, followed by her time at Dala Girls Secondary School in Kano, laid a solid foundation to her exceptional intellect and charisma.
From a young age, her remarkable eloquence and confidence were evident. As a member of her school’s debating society and a table tennis champion, she consistently distinguished herself among her peers. By 1961, she had already risen to the position of Patrol Leader in the Girls Guide Movement, a clear indication of her budding leadership capabilities. During the tumultuous period of the Nigerian Civil War (1967–1970), she exemplified true patriotism; alongside other devoted wives of military officers, by dedicating herself to the distribution of relief materials to wounded soldiers, an often-overlooked yet profoundly significant act of compassion and support to a nation during the time of great strife.
In 1965, she married 2nd Lieutenant Sani Abacha, whom she had known through familial connections. Their partnership blossomed into a family blessed with ten children—among them, the late Ibrahim (Gaji) and late Abdullahi—and the surviving Muhammad, Zainab, Gumsu, Ruqaiyya, Abba, Mahmoud, Sadiq, and Mustapha. Today, her legacy further extends to over thirty grandchildren, signifying the richness of a life rooted in family and shared values.
Beyond her role as a mother, Maryam Abacha’s influence reached its pinnacle during her tenure as Nigeria’s First Lady from 1993 to 1998. During this period, she imbued the office with a sense of strength and structure that had previously been lacking. In 1994, she launched the Family Support Programme (FSP), which catalyzed into the establishment of the National Programme on Immunization NPI, significantly enhancing child health and welfare across Nigeria.
Her eloquence and leadership qualities shone brightly on the international stage when she led Nigeria’s delegation to the historic 1995 Beijing Conference on Women. This pivotal event thrusted her into the spotlight, where her powerful address earned her the unanimous election as the Pioneer Chairperson of the African First Ladies Peace Mission. Her influential work in this capacity not only highlighted her commitment to advancing women’s rights but also led to the creation of the Family Economic Advancement Programme (FEAP) in 1997, which expanded economic opportunities for rural families.
As the President of the Nigerian Army Officers Wives Association (NAOWA), she played a crucial role in the formation of similar women’s empowerment groups, effectively elevating the social profile of women throughout the country. Her bold advocacy was instrumental in convincing the Federal Government to establish the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs, now a cornerstone institution in Nigeria’s ongoing fight for gender inclusion and social equity.
She was also a quiet but yet impactful contributor to the success of Jam’iyyar Matan Arewa (JMA), one of Nigeria’s most prominent non-governmental organizations dedicated to women’s issues. Even today, her legacy continues to inspire community development and thrust women-led initiatives into the spotlight.
Among her many crowning achievements was the establishment of the National Hospital Abuja, widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s premier healthcare institutions. Her unwavering support extended not only to state First Ladies but also to Federal Ministries and now to contemporary programs being championed by the current First Lady, Her Excellency Senator Remi Tinubu.
Throughout her life, Hajiya Dr. Maryam Abacha has received numerous merit awards at national, regional, and international levels, yet the greatest accolade remains the profound affection and respect she commands from a grateful nation.
Indeed, the Northern Star continues to shine—steady, silent, brighter and infinitely significant.
(Inna,
Allah Ya ja kwana cikin Imani, lafiya da kwanciyar hankali)
May you continue to inspire generations with your strength and wisdom, illuminating the path for those who follow. Your legacy of compassion and leadership will forever shine brightly in the hearts of all Nigerians, reminding us of the power of resilience and dedication to community upliftment. As we celebrate you today, may our gratitude reflect the profound impact you have made in our lives and in the nation’s story. Your strength, dignity, and unwavering commitment to the betterment of society will continue to serve as a guiding light for many. Long may your star shine in the constellation of Nigeria’s remarkable journey to prosperity!
Alhamdu Lillah!
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