By George Omagbemi Sylvester
Former Minister of Finance and Sardaunan Sokoto, Alhaji Abubakar Alhaji, has passed away at the age of 87. Family sources confirmed that the elder statesman died in Abuja on Thursday, July 30, 2026, bringing to an end a distinguished career in Nigeria’s public service that spanned more than three decades.
Alhaji served in several strategic national positions, including Minister of Finance, Minister of State for Budget and National Planning, Permanent Secretary in key federal ministries, and Nigeria’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom.
A respected career civil servant, he rose through the ranks to become Permanent Secretary in the Ministries of Finance, Trade, Industries and National Planning, earning a reputation for professionalism and administrative excellence.
Beyond public service, Alhaji held the revered traditional title of Sardaunan Sokoto, conferred on him in 1990, succeeding the late Sir Ahmadu Bello, the Premier of Northern Nigeria. In that capacity, he played a significant role in promoting dialogue between government, traditional institutions and the people while contributing to national development through public policy and community leadership.
Tributes have continued to pour in from political leaders, traditional rulers and associates, who described him as a patriotic statesman whose legacy of integrity, dedication and service will remain a source of inspiration for future generations.
Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced by the family in accordance with Islamic rites.
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