The Federal Ministry of Finance has expressed profound grief over the death of elder statesman and Nigeria’s former Minister of Finance, Alhaji Abubakar Alhaji (CON), who passed away in Abuja on Thursday, July 30, 2026 at aged 87
The Ministry’s condolence message came from the 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.
A statement by Efe Ovuakporie, Head, Information and Public Relations in the Ministry said the news of the former minister’s passing was received with deep sadness, and described his demise as a monumental loss to the nation, even as Oyedele lauded his career, which spanned decades of dedicated public service defined by unyielding integrity, strict discipline, and an indelible impact on Nigeria’s modern economic landscape and national development.
The Minister said beyond his stewardship and management of the nation’s finances, the late Alhaji also served Nigeria with distinction as High Commissioner to the United Kingdom (UK), 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.
The Minister 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.
Further acknowledging that the late diplomat 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, Oyedele 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.
Deeply concerned, Oyedele prayed that Almighty Allah forgives his shortcomings, welcome him into Aljannatul Firdaus, and grant his grieving family the profound strength needed to bear such an irreparable loss.
