FOUNDER / FORMER PROPRIETRESS: Late Dr. (Mrs.) Maryam Babangida
Born on November 1st, 1948, in Asaba, Delta State, Nigeria, Dr. Mrs. Maryam Babangida was a visionary leader and devoted philanthropist. She attended Queen Amina College, Kaduna (1961–1964), Federal Training Centre, Kaduna (1965–1966), and La Salle University, Illinois-Chicago, USA (1974–1975).​In 1969, she married Major Ibrahim Babangida (now retired General), and together they raised four children.​
Dr. Babangida’s commitment to family and society was central to her life. She believed in the pivotal role of strong family units in fostering moral development and societal growth. Her dedication to nurturing a healthy, supportive home environment reflected her broader vision of leadership, service, and community development a legacy that continues to inspire the El-Amin International School and the ELAA community.
Rising to National Prominence
When Gen. Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida became President in 1985, Dr. Mrs. Maryam Babangida became Nigeria’s First Lady. Her passion for education, empowerment, and philanthropy shaped her work and defined her legacy.
Through her public presence and community-driven initiatives, she brought national attention to the needs and wellbeing of women and families across the country.
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Vision for Education: Founding El-Amin
Dr. Mrs. Maryam Babangida’s initiatives continued to reflect her deep commitment to service, empowerment, and community development.
As First Lady, she championed programs that uplifted women, strengthened families, and promoted social welfare nationwide.
Her influence helped shape national conversations around education, wellbeing, and opportunity.
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Champion of Women & Rural Development
She is fondly remembered for launching the Better Life for Rural Women Programme in 1987, a nationwide initiative that promoted gender equity, women’s empowerment, rural development, and local entrepreneurship.
The programme gained international recognition and received the African Prize for the Sustainable End of Hunger in 1991.
HER LIFE, IMPACT & LEGACY
A tribute to Late Dr. Mrs. Maryam Babangida
Late Dr. Mrs. Maryam Babangida stepped into national prominence in 1984 when her husband became Chief of Army Staff, leading the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA) with vision and compassion. In less than two years, she mobilized members to establish schools, women’s centres, day-care facilities, and welfare programs that significantly impacted families and communities across Nigeria. Her leadership earned both national and international recognition. She received numerous awards for her work in women’s development, child protection, and social welfare, and held several honorary positions, including Patron of major women-focused organizations. Her poise, elegance, and deep humanity made her a defining figure of her time. She lived a life devoted to service, empowerment, and moral upliftment. Beyond her public achievements, she valued simple joys like gardening, sports, and reading. Her legacy continues to guide the El-Amin community, inspiring alumni to carry forward the values, vision, and lasting impact she left behind.