- A Role Model for Young Women in Nigeria – Sultan
By Abdulrahman Aliagan, Abuja
Maryam Ado Bayero, a woman of royal virtues and daughter of the late Emir of Kano, Ado Bayero has been celebrated in a book launch titled “Maryam Ado Bayero: A Woman of Royal Virtues”.
The launch, held at a ceremony at the Congress Hall of Transcorp Hilton, was attended by dignitaries from all walks of life, including members of the royal families, the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Saad Abubakar, the Royal Majesty, the Ooni of Ife, Enitan Oguwusi Ojaja II, government officials, and members of the public.
The book, written by renowned author Ambassador Dr. Hajo Sani, chronicles the life, times and achievements of Hajia Maryam Ado Bayero, who is widely regarded as a role model for young women in Nigeria.
Speaking at the launch, the author described Hajia Maryam Ado Bayero as a woman of great strength, intelligence, and grace, who has made significant contributions to the development of Kano State, Kwara State and Nigeria as a whole.
She said, “Hajia Maryam Ado Bayero is a woman of substance who has distinguished herself in various fields of endeavor, including education, philanthropy, and community development. She is a shining example of what women can achieve when given the opportunity to excel.”
She also appreciated the contributions of some scholars who made the project possible and rich among those she specifically mentioned were Prof. Ibrahim Abdulganiy Jawondo, a Professor of History, University of Ilorin and Professor Gambari of the Department of Islamic Studies, Bayero University, Kano among others.
In his opening address, Governor Abdullahi Ganduje of Kano State, Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, explained that the decision by his government to immortalize the late ‘Mai Babban Daki’ through his biography project was informed by their desire to inspire younger generations, especially the girl child.
Ganduje said documenting the life of a distinguished mother is a service to history, knowledge, and development, adding that “every part of her life is but a mirror for the present and future generations.
“The idea behind the book is in itself unique. It started as a discussion between the Chief of Staff to the President, Prof. Ibrahim Gambari and myself during the period of mourning for her departure, when he briefed me about her royal pedigree from the eminent scholar and leader, Sheikh Salihu al Alimi, the founder of modern Ilorin, through many emirs.
“The subject of this biography of Nana Maryam Ado Bayero is special in many ways. She has been recognized for her humility, generosity and unassuming. Despite her position, she lived a simple life worthy of emulation.
“The state government will also support the establishment of a foundation to continue with the good work she had been doing when she was alive which included the building of a Friday Mosque, an Islamiyya school as well as sponsoring an annual Maulud at the Kano Emir’s Palace and Qur’anic Recitation Competitions. Therefore, as a step forward, proceeds from today’s launch will be directed to that foundation.”
The event also featured crème de la crème on the role of women in leadership and the importance of empowering women in Nigeria.
In their remarks, the Emir of Bichi and the Emir of Kano eulogised the late Maryam Ado Bayero they expressed their gratitude for the honor and thanked the author for chronicling the life of their mother.
In this same vein the Sultan of Sokoto urged young women to pursue their dreams with determination and resilience, stressing the need for women to train their wards and writing biography to enable children yet unborn to read about those who have contributed to the growth and development if our dear country.
According to Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi Ojaja II said the launch of “Maryam Ado Bayeroa: A Woman of Royal Virtues” is a fitting tribute to a remarkable woman who has dedicated her life to serving her community and making a positive impact on society.
He said, “It is hoped that the book will inspire and motivate young women to follow in her footsteps and make their mark on the world.
Ooni therefore described the late matriarch as her mother, he further urged Nigerian women to train their children properly in such a way that it would bring them future glory.
“Our late mother is a virtuous woman and I am proud to have identified with her. I will urge Nigerian women to train their children so that one day they will bring glory to them.” He said.