By George Ozalla
President Bola Tinubu, represented by Senator Simon Bako Lalong, former Governor of Plateau State, celebrated Professor Mary Nanwor Lar’s 90th birthday and book launch, describing her as a “woman of virtue, grace, and quiet strength.” Tinubu noted that the celebration honored a legacy of love, leadership, and service to humanity.
“At 90, Her Excellency remains a symbol of dignity and devotion,” Tinubu said. “As one of the first female professors from Northern Nigeria, she has inspired generations of women and girls across the nation. Many of her students are here today, continuing to apply her lessons for the good of society.”
Former President Goodluck Jonathan praised Prof. Lar as “a calm and dedicated figure who has contributed immensely to her community and country.” He prayed for her long life, saying, “At 90, we pray you live to 120 to continue mentoring young girls.”
Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang donated N50 million and N5 million each on behalf of all former governors of Plateau State, commending Prof. Lar as a “mother in every sense” and an achiever. He highlighted her support for girl-child education and her invaluable contributions to society.
Former Head of State Gen. Yakubu Gowon recalled the warm reception he received from Prof. Lar and her late husband upon returning from exile, describing her as “a most deserving and honoured icon, a loving wife to a political titan.”
The Chairman of the Planning Committee, Professor Suleiman Elias Bogoro, stated, “We are happy that we have top personalities coming from across the length and breadth of Nigeria to celebrate with her. Amb. Prof. Mary Lar is a person of virtue, a virtuous woman, she is an intellectual par excellence, she got to the peak of her career, did a PhD in nomadic education and became a professor in the same specialization, and she was an Ambassador of Nigeria to the Netherlands. As a mother and wife, we check out her records, she is an inspiration to the present generation of mothers and wives.”
Other dignitaries who attended the event included former Governor of Imo State, Chief Rochas Okorocha, Dame Paullen Tallen, former Deputy Governor of Plateau State and two times former Minister and others.
The event featured cake cutting, dance, and group photographs.
The book launch, titled “My Life with My Best Friend,” captured Prof. Lar’s life and achievements. A former Minister of Information commended the author for perfectly capturing her life and times.
Prof. Lar’s daughter, Hon. Beni Lar, said, “First is to thank Almighty God for giving her 90 years on earth, we pray that 90 years she has lived will be not only a legacy for younger Nigerians that hard work pays, peace pays, integrity pays, and most importantly service to your nation. Mama has served this nation and Nigerians remember her, she has taught so many students and she’s still teaching them, a lot of people are here because she was once their teacher, their principal, some are here because she has educated them and some are here because she loves them.”
Professor Mary Nanwor Lar’s remarkable life and achievements serve as a testament to her dedication, perseverance, and passion for education and service. As a trailblazing female professor from Northern Nigeria, she has paved the way for future generations of women and girls to pursue their dreams and make meaningful contributions to society. Her legacy continues to inspire and motivate those who know her, and her impact will be felt for years to come.
