General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida’s autobiography, “A Journey in Service,” unveils a deeply personal narrative of his life, particularly focusing on his enduring love story with his late wife, Maryam. The book, launched alongside a fundraising event for his presidential library, offers a glimpse into the couple’s journey, from their initial encounters in Kaduna to the joys and sorrows of their married life. Babangida’s recollection of their early days paints a vivid picture of a young Maryam, then Maria Okogwu, residing in the unmarried officers’ quarters in Kaduna. He was instantly captivated by her striking beauty and captivating smile, a memory that remained etched in his heart throughout his life.
Their burgeoning relationship faced the test of distance as Babangida pursued military training abroad in India and the UK. However, the physical separation did little to diminish their connection. He frequently visited Maryam at the home of his cousin and close confidant, Garba Duba, further solidifying their bond. A pivotal moment arrived when Babangida, at the young age of 28, faced a near-death experience during a battle. This brush with mortality prompted a profound introspection about his life and relationships. While recuperating from a chest injury at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital, he realized that Maryam was the woman he wanted to spend his life with.
Upon his discharge, Babangida wasted no time in traveling to Kaduna to share his intentions with Maryam. He was determined to marry her and refused to accept any other outcome. However, Maryam initially harbored reservations about his suitability as a husband, given his reputation as a “man about town.” She questioned his capacity for commitment and seriousness, a sentiment echoed by many around her. Babangida’s persistence and genuine affection eventually won her over, marking the beginning of their remarkable journey together.
A crucial aspect of their union involved the role of faith. As a devout Muslim, Babangida expressed to Maryam the importance of his faith and his desire for her to convert to Islam. This request, potentially a point of contention in many relationships, was met with relative ease by Maryam. Her familial background, encompassing both Christian and Muslim influences, coupled with her residence in a Muslim household, facilitated a smooth transition. She embraced Islam and seamlessly adapted to married life within the Muslim faith. This shared faith became a cornerstone of their relationship, fostering a deeper understanding and connection between them.
Babangida further solidified his commitment to Maryam by assuring her that he would not take multiple wives, a practice permissible within Islam. This decision, rooted in his deep love and respect for Maryam, underscored his dedication to building a strong and monogamous marriage. Their union, formalized on September 6, 1969, blossomed into a loving family with the arrival of their four children: Aisha, Muhammad, Aminu, and Halima. Their family life, though lived under the public eye, was characterized by mutual support, love, and shared values.
Tragically, their enduring love story faced its greatest challenge with Maryam’s diagnosis of ovarian cancer. She succumbed to the disease in Los Angeles on December 27, 2009, at the age of 61. This devastating loss left an irreplaceable void in Babangida’s life. He acknowledges the immense difficulty of coping without his beloved wife but finds solace in the cherished memories of their life together. These memories, preserved within the pages of his autobiography, serve as a testament to their unwavering love and a tribute to the remarkable woman who shared his life’s journey.
