Former Minister of Finance, Abubakar Alhaji, has died at the age of 87 after a brief illness.
His death has drawn tributes from friends and associates, who remembered him as a disciplined administrator, respected statesman and committed patriot.
The family announced his death in Abuja but did not disclose details of where he died or funeral arrangements.
“He dedicated his life to serving Nigeria with integrity and wisdom. His legacy of selfless leadership will continue to inspire future generations,” a family source said on Thursday.
Alhaji served as Nigeria’s Minister of Finance from 1990 to 1991 under the military administration of former military president Ibrahim Babangida.
Before his appointment as finance minister, he served as Minister of State for Budget and Planning, where he played a key role in the country’s economic policy formulation.
He also held several key public offices, including Secretary to the Government of the Federation and Nigeria’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom.
Beyond public service, Alhaji held leadership positions in both the civil service and the corporate sector.
He was also the Sardaunan Sokoto, one of the highest traditional titles in the Sokoto Caliphate. He was turbaned in 1990, succeeding the late Premier of Northern Nigeria, Sir Ahmadu Bello, and remained active in national and traditional affairs throughout his lifetime.