Ex-Finance Minister Abubakar Alhaji dies

Former Nigerian Minister of Finance and Sardaunan Sokoto, Alhaji Abubakar Alhaji, has died. The elder statesman passed away on Thursday, with members of his family confirming his death in Abuja.

Alhaji served as Nigeria’s Minister of Finance between 1990 and 1991 during the military administration of former President Ibrahim Babangida. Before that appointment, he held the position of Minister of State for Budget and Planning in 1988, where he played a role in the country’s economic planning.

During his years in public service, he also served as Secretary to the Government of the Federation and later represented Nigeria as the country’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom. His career in government spanned several important positions in the civil service, where he contributed to public administration and national development.

Beyond his government appointments, Alhaji occupied respected roles in the corporate sector and was widely known for his long record of service in both public and private institutions.

He was also the holder of the traditional title of Sardaunan Sokoto, one of the highest honours in the Sokoto Caliphate. He received the title in 1990 after succeeding the late Premier of Northern Nigeria, Sir Ahmadu Bello.

As Sardaunan Sokoto, he served as a link between the traditional institution, government and the people, helping to strengthen relationships between the three throughout his years in office.

His death marks the end of a long career in public service, diplomacy and traditional leadership, leaving behind a legacy of contributions to Nigeria’s governance and national development.