At a significant gathering in Jos, Plateau State, speakers issued a passionate call to the federal government to revitalise nomadic education in Nigeria, a crucial initiative pioneered by Professor Mary Lar. The occasion was a reception ceremony celebrating Professor Lar's 90th birthday, where she was lauded for her visionary efforts in driving education for nomadic communities that migrate due to pastoral practices. Professor Lar conceptualised the National Commission for Nomadic Education, which was formally established in 1989, with the specific aim of catering to the unique educational needs of Nigeria’s nomadic population. This program has been acknowledged for its tremendous contribution to boosting the overall education system in the country.

Professor Mary Lar is not only an educational pioneer but also the esteemed wife of the Late Chief Solomon Lar, who was the first civilian governor of Plateau State and the pioneer National President of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). Furthermore, she served Nigeria with distinction as a former Ambassador to the Netherlands. Her 90th birthday celebration, initially marked in Abuja, was later moved to Jos, the Plateau State capital, at the behest of the state government, and was attended by numerous dignitaries, family members, and friends. The celebration was also distinguished by the presentation of her insightful book, titled “Life with my Best Friend.”

During the celebratory event, Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang, represented by his Deputy, Josephine Piyo, showered accolades on Professor Lar. She was described as a result-oriented educationist, a dedicated philanthropist, and a God-fearing woman who has achieved remarkable success not only for herself but for Nigeria at large. The Deputy Governor further highlighted Professor Lar’s outstanding and unparalleled contributions to national development, the advancement of nomadic education, her intellectual works, and her dedicated service to the people during her time as the First Lady of Plateau State.

The profound impact of the nomadic education program was underscored by Professor Lar’s daughter, Beni Lar, a former member of the House of Representatives. She stated that numerous pastoralists, predominantly Fulanis, benefited extensively from the initiative, with Fulanis in Plateau State achieving particularly high levels of western education as a result. However, Beni Lar also expressed concern, lamenting that in recent times, the government has not provided the necessary attention to sustain and grow nomadic education. She strongly reiterated the call for governments at all levels to revitalise the programme and ensure its continued benefits for these communities.

Further tributes came from the book presenter, Kefas Ropshik (popularly known as Kefiano), who eloquently eulogised Professor Lar for her immense contributions. He also urged the government to formally recognise her enduring legacy by bestowing upon her the honorary title of “Mama Plateau.” The distinguished gathering included notable figures such as the Plateau State First Lady, H.E Mrs. Helen Mutfwang (esq); Senator Napoleon Bali (AVM retired); Plateau CPC coordinator, Helen Edward Dabup; Chief Jonathan Onigbinde; former Plateau State First Lady, Mrs. Valentina Dariye; the Vice Chancellor of the University of Jos, Professor Tanko Ishaya; and the book reviewer, Rev. Dr. Gideon Para-Mallam, all of whom came to honour Professor Lar’s life and work.