Losing a mother is an indescribable pain, but for Alhaja Funmi Bawala, the legacy of love, wisdom, and generosity her mother left behind brings comfort. She was a pillar of strength, shaping lives through kindness and discipline.
In an interview with Citypeople reporter, Jamiu Abubakar, Alhaja Funmi reflects on her mother’s sacrifices, from ensuring their education to offering unwavering support. Despite hardships, she remained selfless, always putting her children first.
Though the loss is immense, Alhaja Funmi is committed to honoring her mother’s values. Through kindness and generosity, she continues her mother’s legacy, keeping her memory alive.
How would you describe the passing of your mum? How did you receive the news of her death?
The passing of my mum was a devastating shock to me and the entire family. However, I take solace in the fact that she lived a glorious and well-fulfilled life. Even if she had lived to be 100 years or more, I wouldn’t have been ready to let her go. But she has left us behind and gone to the eternal place where I believe she has been received by God Almighty.
My mum was my heart, my anchor, and my greatest blessing. She was the kind of mother anyone would dream of having. She embodied love, sacrifice, and wisdom. So many beautiful things have been said about her, and every word is true. She was truly exceptional. I pray that her soul continues to rest in perfect peace.
What is your own story about her? How would you describe her personality?
Oh my God! From the moment I was old enough to recognize her as my mother, her love was evident—it was unwavering and limitless. Maybe it was because she was an educator, but she had this incredible ability to shape and guide us in the right direction.
I vividly remember when I was about to sit for my WAEC. At the time, things were tough financially, and my father told me he didn’t have enough money to pay for the exam. When I turned to my mother, despite her struggles, she didn’t hesitate. She took a loan without a second thought and made sure I had what I needed. That was who she was—selfless, determined, and always putting her children first.
Even as a teenager, when I wanted to explore and go out more, she was there to guide me, to protect me, to ensure I was always on the right path. And when it was time for me to travel to the UK, my husband and I had exhausted all our savings. Once again, my mother came through. She went to her cooperative society, withdrew all her savings, and gave me everything.
When I later sent the money back to her in gratitude, she refused it. She simply said, “My daughter, I don’t need it. That was my contribution to your journey.” What kind of love is greater than that? She gave me everything she could as a mother, and for that, I will always be grateful.
She was exceptionally kind and generous. She was an inspiration in every sense of the word. No matter the difficulties she faced, you would never see her burden reflected on her face. She always carried a warm smile, even in the hardest of times. That resilience is something I have learned from her, and it continues to guide me.
I thank God for her life. It was a life well lived—a fulfilled and meaningful existence. Even though I wish she could have stayed with us longer, I am grateful for the time we had. I pray that she has found eternal rest and that God welcomes her into His embrace.
Can you share with us a bit about your last moments with her?
I wasn’t in Nigeria when she passed. My last physical moment with her was on January 7th, but we had our final conversation over FaceTime. She was so clear and coherent while we spoke. At that time, she was taken to the hospital, and when I saw her sitting in a wheelchair, I said, “Mum, why are you in that wheelchair? You better get up!” And she smiled and said, “My daughter, I will walk.” I held onto that hope.
A few days later, I kept in touch with her carers, calling frequently to check on her. Every time I asked about her, they would tell me, “Grandma is sleeping.” I thought, “Okay, let her rest. She needs strength.”
Then, she was taken to the hospital for a routine medical check-up when she started struggling with mobility. When I asked what was wrong, they told me it was malaria and typhoid, but that she was responding to treatment. I followed up closely on her care.
But then, one day, my brother called my husband. The moment I saw my husband’s expression, I knew something wasn’t right. My brother doesn’t call at odd hours unless there’s something important. My heart sank, and my mind raced with different thoughts—Could it be? No, it shouldn’t be. It must not be.
Then, the words came. “Mama is gone.”
I can’t describe that moment. It was like a heavy blow to my chest. It still feels unreal. She passed on January 24th, 2025, and I still haven’t fully processed it. It was sudden, painful, and incredibly difficult. Losing her has been one of the toughest moments of my life.
Looking at her legacy, what values of hers will you uphold to keep her memory alive?
My mother’s greatest gift was her ability to touch lives. As a teacher, she wasn’t just focused on academics—she genuinely cared about people. Even if she didn’t know you personally, she would find a way to impact your life. She had a heart of gold.
That is the legacy I want to continue. I want to touch lives, to give, to uplift people in whatever way I can. She passed down that generosity to all her children, and we are determined to carry it forward.
What are your thoughts on seeing your mom’s people from the East actively participate in honoring her at the burial ceremony?
I am deeply grateful. Their presence meant so much to us. As they prepare to return home after the program, I pray for their safe journey and for God to bless them abundantly.
Their kindness and generosity have been overwhelming. Just a little while ago, one of the elders approached us and said, “We have a contribution on behalf of the Okorie family, where your mother came from.” That touched my heart deeply. It shows that generosity runs in the family—it’s in our blood.
I appreciate everyone who came to celebrate my mother’s life, both from home and abroad. I also want to thank the media for their support in sharing her story.
I pray that Almighty Allah grants us all long life and good health. And when the time comes—though not anytime soon—I pray our children will be able to honor us just as we have honored our mother.
Thank you.
