By Anthony Maliki, Abuja
President Bola Tinubu has described Prof. Ambassador Mary Lar, widow of the first civilian Governor of Plateau State Chief Solomon Lar as a woman of substance who has touched lives beyond measure in the country and world at large.
The President who was represented by Senator Simon Lalong at her 90th birthday celebration and unveiling of a book “Life with my best friend” in Abuja, said the matriarch of the Lar Family remains a radiant symbol for education and hope.
He said among several accomplishments, she is one of the first female professors of Northern Nigeria origin, a distinction that has inspired generations of women and girls across the region and the country at large.
He said “during her academic journey, her visionary leadership gave birth to Nigeria’s Nomadic Education Programme – a groundbreaking initiative that has provided access to learning for countless children in neglected and mobile communities. In addition, she has taught and mentored many students that have drawn from her wealth of knowledge, wisdom and character to become giants in their chosen fields in Nigeria and around the world”.
Speaking of her late husband, Tinubu said Chief Lar and him were fellow travelers in the long and often arduous journey toward a democratic Nigeria. Though they hailed from different regions and pursued different political platforms, they had a shared conviction – that Nigeria must never be governed in fear, but in freedom; never by force, but by the rule of law; never in fragments, but as one indivisible nation and in unity.
Former head of State General Yakubu Gowon said Prof. Lar is an epitome of beauty, intellect and compassion, having sacrificed for other people particularly women.
He commended her resilience and diligence in service which has raised her to national and international prominence.
Also speaking, former President Goodluck Jonathan said the contributions of Prof. Lar remain a point of reference to the younger generation considering her level of achievement and humility.
Goodluck asked the younger generation to emulate her and also build on her legacies in order to make the nation attain fulfilment.
Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang praised the celebrant for her commitment to God and her loyalty to her late husband which made it possible for him to serve the State and nation effectively.
The book reviewer Prof. Jerry Gana newly published memoir, “Life with My Best Friend,” is not merely a book. It is a national treasure – an intimate window into a partnership that shaped not only a family, but also a democratic ideal. In those pages, the nation rediscovers the power of quiet sacrifice, of love tethered to public duty, and of a life lived for something far greater than self.
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