Maryam Waziri, whose full name is Maryam Musa Waziri, is a prominent Nigerian actress celebrated for her captivating roles in the Kannywood film industry, the Hausa-language branch of Nollywood.
Known for her breakthrough performance as Laila in the hit series Labarina da Sauransu, she has starred in over 40 films since her debut in 2015, earning acclaim for her versatility, beauty, and adherence to cultural values in portraying strong, relatable characters.
Maryam Waziri Biography
| Real Name | Maryam Musa Waziri |
| Ethnicity | Fulani |
| Religion | Islam |
| Education | University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID) |
| Parents | Mr. and Mrs. Waziri |
| Siblings | Two |
| Spouse | Tijjani Babangida |
| Children | One |
| Relationship | Married |
Early Life And Education
Maryam Musa Waziri (born on November 9, 1992, 33 years old) is from Gombe State, northeastern Nigeria, and comes from a close-knit Muslim family of three children, where she was the only daughter raised alongside two younger brothers. She was brought up by her parents, known as Mr and Mrs Waziri.
Maryam’s formal education began with primary and secondary schooling in her hometown of Gombe, where she excelled academically. She later pursued higher education at the University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID) in Borno State, graduating with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration. She came from the Fulani Ethnic group; her religion is Islam.
Career
Maryam Waziri launched her acting career in 2015, immediately after graduating from UNIMAID, debuting in the Kannywood film Muguwar Mace, where her natural talent alongside stars like Ahmad Ali Nuhu and Ali Gumak earned her quick recognition.
She rose to prominence in 2016 with standout roles in films like Yan Zamani. Further, she solidified her status in 2020 with her iconic portrayal of Laila in Labarina da Sauransu. This Saira Movies production showcased her emotional depth and chemistry with co-stars like Nafisat Abdullahi and Naziru Sarkin Waka.
With over 40 films to her credit, she has become one of Kannywood’s most sought-after and highest-paid actresses, blending drama, cultural narratives, and themes of empowerment. In addition to acting, Maryam is a savvy entrepreneur, owning Maryam Waziri Collections, a clothing line specializing in traditional and modern women’s attire.
Her career faced a profound setback in 2024 following a tragic car accident on the Kaduna-Zaria road, which claimed her son’s life and her brother-in-law’s, while leaving her with severe facial injuries requiring plastic surgery in the Netherlands.
Filmography
- Muguwar Mace (2015) – Debut role
- Yan Zamani (2019) – Lead role
- Labarina da Sauransu (2020) – As Laila (breakout)
- Aminan Juna
- Ya Ko Kishiya
- Yakin Mata
- Gidan Abinci
- Hijira
- Gida Uku
- Rai Dai
- Aska Tara
- Kisan Gilla
- Ba Ni (Mud Clan) (2022)
- Almajiri (2022)
Awards and Nominations
- Best Actress (Kannywood) – City People Entertainment Awards (2020) – Won (for Labarina da Sauransu)
- Revelation of the Year (Female) – Kannywood Movie Awards – Won
Social Media
- Instagram handle: @maryamwazeery
- Twitter handle: @maryamwaziri
Personal Life
Maryam Waziri leads a faith-centered and family-oriented life, deeply influenced by her Islamic upbringing and cultural roots. She married former Nigerian footballer Tijjani Babangida on November 26, 2021, in a private ceremony in Kaltungo, Gombe State, after meeting him years earlier.
Tijjani, previously married with a son from his prior union, serves as President of the National Association of Nigerian Professional Footballers (NANPF).
The couple welcomed their son, Fadeel, in February 2023, bringing immense joy to Maryam, who has described motherhood as her greatest fulfillment.
Tragically, Fadeel passed away in a horrific 2024 car accident that also claimed Tijjani’s brother, Ibrahim Babangida, leaving Maryam with life-altering injuries, including the loss of an eye and severe memory issues during her recovery in the Netherlands.
Net Worth
Maryam Waziri’s net worth is estimated at $400,000, primarily accumulated through her prolific acting career in over 40 Kannywood films, where she commands high fees as one of the industry’s top talents. Additional revenue streams include brand endorsements, social media campaigns leveraging her large following, and her successful clothing line, Maryam Waziri Collections.