IBB a  true legend, father of our nation – Maryam Kurfi 

A Katsina-born agro-allied investor, Hajiya Maryam Aminu Balele Kurfi, has described Nigerian former military President Ibrahim Badamosi Babangida as a true legend and father of the nation. 

Speaking at the launch of “A Journey In Service: An Autobiography of General Ibrahim Babangida” in Abuja,  on Thursday, Hajiya Maryam Kurfi described Babangida as “a true legend and father of our nation” whose leadership from 1985 to 1993 marked significant reforms in Nigeria’s development. 

“General Babangida stands as a towering figure in Nigeria’s history, a visionary leader whose impact continues to shape our nation,” she stated. 

Continuing, Maryam Kurfi said, “As our family’s benefactor, mentor, and everlasting guardian, IBB has been a guiding light for my husband, Hon. Aminu Balele, member representing Dutsin-ma/Kurfi Federal Constituency of Katsina State.”

The agro-allied investor noted that their widow’s mite donation was derived from agricultural ventures, a sector that flourished under Babangida’s administration. 

“Our donation, though modest, comes from the fruits of our labour in the agricultural sector, a field that General Babangida himself championed through initiatives like the Directorate of Foods, Roads, and Rural Infrastructure,” she said. 

On the proposed IBB Presidential Library, Hajiya Maryam Kurfi noted that,  “This library will stand as a testament to IBB’s enduring legacy, preserving his contributions for future generations. 

“It will serve as a beacon of knowledge, inspiring young Nigerians to emulate his visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to our nation’s progress.” 

The event attracted prominent Nigerian leaders, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, former President Olusegun Obasanjo, former Vice Presidents Atiku Abubakar and Yemu Osinbajo, General T. Y. Danjuma, and business moguls, Alhaji Abdulsamad Rabiu of BUA, and Alhaji Aliko Dangote.