The First Lady, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu, on Saturday renamed the main auditorium of Maryam Babangida National Centre for Women Development after Maryam Abacha.
Mrs Tinubu, while announcing this in her speech, said the occasion was a remarkable achievement in the collaborative efforts aiming at strengthening connections that would enhance progress and unity among women.
Maryam is the wife of late Gen. Sani Abacha, former military Head of State, who died on June 8, 1998 in Aso Villa, Abuja at the age of 54 years.
The hall, formerly known as African Peace Mission Hall, was on Saturday unveiled by the first lady and renamed after Maryam, in recognition of her “strong advocacy for peace across the African continent”.
The First Lady described Mrs Abacha as “a woman of remarkable character and unyielding dedication to the advancement of the Africa continent.
“Her advocacy led to the establishment of the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs with a woman appointed as cabinet minister.
“This feat was replicated in various states which expanded the visibility of Nigerian women.
“Recently, during the renaming of this centre, I emphasised the need for women to bridge gaps, exhibit exemplary conduct and focus beyond our differences as the unity among us is more important.
“This event is significant as it forms a major step toward establishing a lasting legacy of peace within our nation.
“In our journey toward harmony and prosperity, it is essential we recognise and pay tribute to those individuals who played pivotal roles in advancing peace and stability.”
The News Agency of Nigeria reported that the first lady’s submission resonated in the thoughts of other speakers like the Director-General of the centre, Mrs Asabe Bashire, and the Permanent Secretary in the women affairs ministry, Mrs Monilola Udoh.
Remarking, Mrs Abacha prayed for the country and the present administration led by President Bola Tinubu and Vice-President Kashim Shettima, and wished them success.
