Family announces passing of community Matriarch, Mariya Garba Umar, at 76 By Binta HaroonÂ
Family announces passing of community Matriarch, Mariya Garba Umar, at 76
By Binta HaroonÂ
The family of Malama Mariya Garba Umar has announced her peaceful passing on May 27, 2026, at the age of 76.
In a statement signed by her in-law Mallam M.K. Ilyasu on behalf of the family, the deceased, fondly known as “Granny,” passed away at about 3:00 p.m. on the day of Eid-Adha, bringing to a close a life dedicated to compassion, hard work and service to humanity.
Born in 1950 in Adavi, Okene Emirate of Kogi State, Malama Mariya Garba Umar was widely respected for her commitment to community development and the empowerment of young women.
She was particularly renowned for training numerous women in traditional cloth-making skills, an achievement that earned recognition from the National Cultural Centre in Abuja, where she once showcased her works.
The family described her as a woman of humility, integrity, honesty and deep faith, whose ability to foster lasting peaceful relationships endeared her to many.
“She lived a life marked by compassion, hard work and community service. She had a unique gift for bringing people together and ensuring lasting harmony among family members, friends and the wider community,” the statement read.
Malama Mariya Garba Umar is survived by her four children; Halima, Ayuba, Fatima and Kaltume, as well as three sons-in-law and four grandchildren.
She was predeceased by her husband, Mallam Garba Umar, a banker and respected community leader within the Ebira community in Kaduna State.
Her funeral rites were conducted in accordance with Islamic tradition, and she was laid to rest on the same day, May 27, 2026, at about 6:30 p.m.
The family noted that her passing occurred during the sacred month of Dhul-Hijjah, a period revered by Muslims for worship, supplication and spiritual purification.
They prayed for Almighty Allah to forgive her shortcomings and grant her Al-Jannatul Firdaus.
“Though she will be deeply missed, her legacy of kindness, service and devotion to humanity will continue to inspire all who knew her,” the statement added.
