Maryam Abacha has transformed many lives – Buhari

President Muhammadu Buhari has wished Mrs Maryam Abacha, the wife of former President Sani Abacha, a happy 75th birthday.

The leader congratulated the former President of Nigeria Army Officers Wives’ Association (NAOWA), 1985-1990 on the milestone.

Garba Shehu, the presidential spokesperson, acknowledged the matriarch of the Abacha family’s kindness, generosity, and charitable efforts in a statement Thursday night.

Buhari stated that she took use of every chance provided by God to help the destitute and downtrodden.

Maryam’s assistance to the establishment of the National Hospital for Women and Children, which eventually became the National Hospital, Abuja, was mentioned.

Buhari affirmed that her initiative and leadership “transformed many lives across the country, particularly wives of military officers, girl-child, rural women and children”.

He further hailed Mrs Abacha for leading campaigns and funding education and self-improvement skills for women, opening up opportunities in Small Medium Scale Enterprises, operating farms and encouraging many into agriculture.

The President also commended Maryam for inspiring the African First Ladies Peace Mission, Poverty Alleviation Programme, National Programme on Immunisation, Family Support Programme, Family Support Basic Education Programme and Family Economic Advancement Programme.