The Sardaunan Sokoto, Alhaji Abubakar Alhaji, has died at the age of 88 in Abuja, a family source confirmed on Thursday.
The respected elder statesman passed away following complications from an age-related ailment, according to the source.
Alhaji Alhaji, who served as Nigeria’s Minister of Finance from 1985 to 1986 under the military administration of General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, also held the position of Secretary to the Government of the Federation and served as Nigeria’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom.
The soft-spoken yet exceptionally brilliant statesman held the revered traditional title of Sardaunan Sokoto—a distinction previously bestowed upon the late Premier of Northern Nigeria, Sir Ahmadu Bello.
Born into the family of Muhammed Sani on 12 November 1938, historical accounts suggest he was named Alhaji Alhaji after being born on the day of Sallah and subsequently undertaking the pilgrimage to Mecca.
His educational journey began in Kano, after which he transferred to Katsina Government College. He later pursued higher education at Bournemouth College of Commerce and the University of Reading, Berkshire, where he earned a degree in political economy. He further enhanced his expertise through advanced courses at the Hague Institute of Social Services and the IMF Institute in Washington.
As of press time, no official statement regarding burial arrangements had been issued, though the family source indicated that details would be made available shortly, in accordance with Islamic rites.