Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), has expressed deep shock over the death of Maryam Murtala, a Canadian-based trailblazer, describing her as a rare gem.
In a condolence message, Dabiri-Erewa stated: “It is with a heavy heart and deep sense of loss that I, on behalf of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission and the entire Nigerian Diaspora Community, mourn the passing of Mrs Maryam Murtala.
“Maryam, who founded the brand Canada Vendors, was a builder of people, a bridge between two nations, and a shining light for Nigerians in the diaspora.
“The success of the just-concluded first Nigerian Diaspora Economic Summit in Canada could not have been possible without Maryam’s tireless efforts, hard work, and passion.
“Her energy, her commitment, and her love for community ensured that the voices of vendors, women, and small business owners were heard and celebrated. She believed that the diaspora must not only speak, but also serve. And she lived that belief every day.
“We have lost a sister, a leader, and a patriot. But her legacy will live on in every vendor she empowered, every business she supported, and every life she touched — including mine, in the over two years I had the privilege of meeting such an amazing and selfless personality, beautiful inside and out.
“On behalf of NiDCOM and the Nigerian government, we extend our deepest condolences to her family, to Canada Vendors, and to the entire Nigerian community in Canada.”
Dabiri-Erewa prayed that Allah forgive her shortcomings, accept her good deeds, grant her family and loved ones the strength to bear the irreparable loss, and grant her Al-Jannah Firdaus.
“Rest in peace, Maryam. Your memory and legacy live on,” she added.
Maryam Murtala, a lawyer by profession, was a community leader and business builder. She founded Canada Vendors, a platform she used to market, advertise, and promote Nigerian businesses in Canada to a global audience.
Until her passing, she served as Public Relations Director of the Network of Nigerians in Canada (NNC) and Founder/CEO of Canada Vendors.
She was also Head of Media and Marketing for the highly successful inaugural Nigerian Diaspora Economic Summit held in Canada in August.