The city of Minna came alive on Saturday as Halima Babangida, the youngest daughter of Nigeria’s former military president, Ibrahim Babangida, launched the Halimah Ibrahim Babangida Foundation (HIB Foundation) in memory of her late mother, Maryam Babangida. The event drew a large crowd of widows, students, and underprivileged individuals, all inspired by the foundation’s promise to transform lives through empowerment, education, and entrepreneurship.
The late Maryam Babangida, a champion for rural women and families, was celebrated for her enduring legacy of compassion and service. The foundation’s unveiling coincided with the 15th anniversary of her passing, as Halima dedicated the initiative to continuing her mother’s vision of uplifting the less fortunate.
Among the dignitaries present was the First Lady of Niger State, Hajiya Fatima Mohammed Bago, who commended Halima for her remarkable initiative. In a speech delivered on her behalf, she described Maryam Babangida as a trailblazer and visionary whose efforts to empower rural women remain unmatched. She praised Halima for carrying her mother’s torch, saying, “It is heartwarming to see her daughter take on this noble responsibility, proving that compassion and action can truly transform communities.”
Halima, visibly emotional, spoke about her mother’s impact and how it inspired her mission. She recounted vivid memories of her mother’s dedication to teaching rural women to read and empowering them through knowledge. “Today, we don’t just launch a foundation; we ignite a movement,” she declared.
The foundation rolled out three major initiatives: empowering 300 widows and young entrepreneurs, funding WAEC and JAMB examinations for 4,000 students, and creating a bursary program for 500 undergraduates. Guests witnessed the disbursement of cash and empowerment packages to widows, while selected students received full payment for their examination fees.
The Emir of Minna, Dr. Umar Faruk Bahago, graced the event as the Father of the Day, and Halima’s siblings, Mohammed and Aminu Babangida, offered heartfelt support to their sister. Mohammed, Pro-Chancellor of El-Amin University, reflected on their mother’s legacy, calling Halima the “baby of the house” who has now become a beacon of hope for many.
Widows like Zainab Umar, a 38-year-old mother of three, shared their hopes for a brighter future through the foundation’s programs. “I believe this will help me start a business and support my children’s education,” she said. Similarly, Salim Mohammed, a university student with three siblings in school, expressed gratitude for the bursary program, calling it “a life-changing opportunity.”
Halima’s childhood friend, Fatima Dangote, sent her heartfelt support, emphasizing the power of their shared vision to empower communities. Halima concluded with a powerful call to action: “Let history record that we planted a forest of opportunity for thousands to follow. Join us in this mission for a better youth and a better nation.”
As the event drew to a close, the spirit of Maryam Babangida’s legacy resonated strongly. The HIB Foundation is not just a tribute but a testament to the transformative power of vision, compassion, and action.
