The Honourable Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Taiwo Oyedele; the Permanent Secretary, Finance, Mr. Raymond Omachi; the Permanent Secretary, Special Duties, Mr. Mohammed Sanusi Danjuma; and the management and staff of the Federal Ministry of Finance have received with deep sadness news of the passing of former Minister of Finance, Alhaji Abubakar Alhaji, CON.

Describing his death as a great loss to the nation, Mr. Oyedele said the late elder statesman devoted his life to public service, distinguishing his career with integrity, discipline, and sound judgement, and leaving a lasting imprint on Nigeria’s economic management and national development.

Beyond his stewardship of the nation’s finances, Mr. Oyedele noted, Alhaji Abubakar Alhaji also served Nigeria with distinction as High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, and was held in high esteem in traditional leadership as the Sardaunan Sokoto, a record of service and leadership that earned him respect across the country.

Mr. Oyedele said his legacy extends well beyond the offices he held, describing him as a thoughtful leader whose experience, wisdom, and commitment to the public good continue to inspire generations of public servants long after he left active service. He added that the late former Minister played an important role in strengthening Nigeria’s public finance architecture and institutions, a legacy that will continue to resonate within the Federal Ministry of Finance and across the public service.

The Honourable Minister extended his heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased; the Governor and Government of Sokoto State; the Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar III; the Sultanate Council; and the people of Sokoto State.

He prayed that Almighty Allah forgives the shortcomings of the late Alhaji Abubakar Alhaji, grants him Aljannatul Firdaus, and grants his family and all who mourn him the strength and fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.

Efe Ovuakporie Head, Information and Public Relations
31st July, 2026