The Northern Senators Forum has expressed deep sorrow over the death of elder statesman and former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Alhaji Abubakar Alhaji, describing him as one of Nigeria’s finest public servants.
Alhaji died on Thursday in Abuja at the age of 87, bringing to an end a distinguished career that spanned decades in the nation’s civil service and government.
In a condolence message, the Forum said it received news of his passing with heavy hearts but accepted it as the will of Almighty Allah.
The senators described the late Sardaunan Sokoto as a patriot whose life was dedicated to public service, integrity and nation-building.
Throughout his career, Alhaji held several key positions, including Minister of State for Budget and Planning in 1988, Minister of Finance between 1990 and 1991, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, and Nigeria’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom from 1992 to 1996.
Before entering political office, he built an outstanding career in the civil service, rising to the rank of Permanent Secretary while serving in the Ministries of Finance, Trade, Industries and National Planning. He earned a reputation for discipline, professionalism and commitment to duty.
In 1990, he became Sardaunan Sokoto, succeeding the late Premier of Northern Nigeria, Sir Ahmadu Bello. The Forum said he carried the prestigious title with humility and honour, serving as a respected link between government, traditional institutions and ordinary citizens until his final days.
The senators noted that his legacy would live on through his contributions to national development and his commitment to unity and public service.
They prayed for Almighty Allah to grant him Jannatul Firdaus and asked God to comfort his family, the Sokoto Caliphate, the government and people of Sokoto State, and Nigerians mourning his passing.
