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From Shafa’atu Suleiman, Sokoto
Veteran journalist and Senior Special Assistant to the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Mallam Yusuf Dingyadi, has described the late former Minister of Finance and Sardaunan Sokoto, Alhaji Abubakar Alhaji, as a trusted brother, compassionate leader, and accomplished statesman whose legacy of integrity and selfless service will remain unforgettable.
In a heartfelt condolence message, Dingyadi said the late elder statesman lived a fulfilled life, devoted to serving humanity, uplifting the less privileged, and promoting the development of society.
According to him, Alhaji’s humility, generosity, and unwavering commitment to justice endeared him to people from all walks of life.
Reflecting on their long-standing friendship, Dingyadi said their relationship blossomed during their years in journalism through writing, publishing, and their involvement in the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA).
He recalled that the late statesman once hosted a reception at his residence in honour of three journalists—Altine Shehu Kajiji, Kabir Assada, and himself—a gesture he said strengthened their friendship for life.
“It was an honour that cemented our relationship forever,” Dingyadi said.
He also recounted how the late Sardaunan Sokoto hosted a delegation of British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) journalists during the turbaning ceremony of the late Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammadu Maccido.
“During the dinner, we all benefited immensely from Alhaji’s wealth of experience. Even the leader of the delegation, Hilary Anderson, publicly acknowledged his hospitality and confessed she had learnt many things she never knew despite living in London,” he added.
Paying glowing tribute to the deceased, Dingyadi said Alhaji Abubakar Alhaji never discriminated against anyone, shunned propaganda and selfishness, and remained courageous and principled throughout his lifetime.
“Since the passing of Sarkin Yakin Gwandu, Alhaji Abubakar Koko, Tsoho Mafara and Muhammadu Bature, I have not seen anyone who carried the burden of his people with the same sincerity as the late Sardaunan Sokoto.
“He welcomed everyone with open arms. On one occasion, he instructed his aide to grant me unrestricted access to him at any time. Only those who knew him closely could truly appreciate the depth of his kindness and character,” Dingyadi said.
He added that the late elder statesman affectionately addressed him as “Yusufu,” describing the gesture as a reflection of Alhaji’s warmth, humility, and genuine respect for others.
Alhaji Abubakar Alhaji served as Minister of National Planning before his appointment as Minister of Finance under the military administration of former President Ibrahim Babangida.
Before joining the Federal Executive Council, he had risen through the ranks of the federal civil service to become a Permanent Secretary, serving in key ministries, including Trade, Finance, and National Planning.
Recognised as one of Nigeria’s foremost technocrats, he played a leading role in shaping the nation’s economic policies and strengthening relations with international financial institutions during a critical period in the country’s history.
In recognition of his immense contributions to public service and the Sokoto Caliphate, he was conferred with the revered traditional title of Sardaunan Sokoto in 1990, succeeding the late Sir Ahmadu Bello, Premier of the defunct Northern Region.
Tributes have continued to pour in from political leaders, traditional rulers, associates, and admirers across the country, who described the late statesman as a disciplined administrator, accomplished economist, and patriotic Nigerian whose legacy of integrity, humility, and service will continue to inspire generations.
His funeral prayer, held at the Sultan Bello Mosque in Sokoto, was attended by Vice President Kashim Shettima, the Sultan of Sokoto, the Deputy Governor of Sokoto State, former Governor Senator Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, Hon. Abdulsamad Dasuki, Sambo Dasuki, Abubakar Dasuki, serving and former ministers, members of the National Assembly, senior government officials, traditional rulers, religious leaders, and other dignitaries from across Nigeria.
