09/05/2026
Meet Hajiya Mariam Indira Emeje Mohammed, CEO Madira Group and founder of Igala Carnival/Igala Noble Women Initiative.
Born on August 9, 1969, in Lagos State Nigeria, and lives in Abuja, Nigeria, Mariam Indira Emeje Mohammed hails from Kogi State, her grand parents lived in Anyigba, they are from a notable lineage in Ojofu - Dekina LGA —daughter of the late Chief Willams Alhaji Emeje of the Nigerian Navy, and one time Director of Sports - Benue State Sports Council 1980 - 1984 and Hajiya Ramatu Oyibo. Her early education took place in kwara State, she attended Trinity nursery and primary school llorin and in Benue State - Makurdi, where she attended Demonstration Primary School, LGEA Primary School , she attended Mount Camel Secondary School, completed her secondary education at CMML Secondary School in Anyigba, Kogi State, from 1974 to 1986.
Following her secondary education, Mariam pursued higher studies at the School of Basic Studies in Makurdi, Benue State, from 1988 to 1989. She then continued at Benue State University, where she earned an Ordinary National Diploma (OND) in Banking and Finance from 1989 to 1991. Currently, Mariam is furthering her education in Business Administration at Nasarawa State University.
Mariam is a Philanthropist, the visionary CEO of MADIRA GROUP, which has organized the IGALA CARNIVAL the "Biggest Carnival in North Central Nigeria". for nearly a decade — This vibrant event celebrates the rich cultural heritage of the Igala people at Anyingba, while alongside promoting Nigeria cultural heritage and Tourism both in Anyigba and Abuja, attracting over 250,000 and more attendees from around the globe.
In addition to her impressive contributions to the carnival, she has made a significant impact in the REAL ESTATE sector, owning and constructing properties and Mimi Estates in Jahi and Gwarinpa, she is known by the name Madira Real Estate Limited. Mariam is also the founder of the Igala Noble Women Initiative, a non-governmental organization that unites over 200 Igala women members from various organizations who have come together to empower Women, the Girl child, and Youth, this initiative is also amis at developing rural communities in Igala Kingdom..
Her leadership extends to Rotary International, where she is serving the Second President - the Rotary Club of Abuja Achievers in Wuse 2, 2025 / 2025 Rotary year.
Over her career, Mariam has been recognized with numerous awards from various organizations celebrating her dedication and contributions to her community and beyond. Mariam was married to Late Alh. Mohammed Ali Shaibu a philanthropist and a Businessman from Ankpa and blessed with a child- Barrister Zainab Ojodale Mohammed and has two adopted Children- Adamu Isah Emeje, and Farida Nuhu. Her hobbies are Riding her horses, Playing golf and Travelling.
