Asagba of Asaba, HRM Joseph Edozien, has said his cabinet will on Thursday plant 76 masquerade trees in honour of their late daughter, the late Maryam Babangida, for her immense contributions towards the empowerment of Nigerian women.
This was made known through the Iyase of Asaba, Chief Patrick Onyeobi, at a press briefing in the palace on Wednesday.
The tree planting is to draw public attention to the need to renew individual and collective commitment to the fight against climate change.
Unveiling a week’s programme of activities to commemorate the 2023 Mariam Babangida Day, 13 years after her demise, Obi Edozien noted that the event was to bring to the fore her advocacy for women, particularly rural women.
The traditional ruler explained that 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 reminded that 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, stated that the late Babangida was an international figure, who meant well for not only Nigerian women but also African ladies, and for her commedable initiatives, the palace will come up with a book entitled, Maryam Ndidiamaka Babangida: 20 years after.”
