ACF mourns ex-minister, diplomat Alhaji, says Nigeria has lost a bridge-builder

The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has expressed deep sorrow over the death of former Minister of Budget and Finance and one-time Nigerian High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Sir Alhaji Abubakar Alhaji, describing him as one of Northern Nigeria's finest public servants whose life embodied service, integrity and patriotism.

In a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Prof. T. A. Muhammad-Baba, the forum said the late elder statesman, popularly known as "Triple A", left behind an enduring legacy of selfless service to the nation.

The ACF said Alhaji, who held the traditional title of Sardaunan Sokoto and was a recipient of the Knight of the British Empire (KBE), successfully combined the values of tradition with modern public administration throughout his distinguished career.

According to the forum, the deceased rose through the ranks of the federal civil service to become a Permanent Secretary before serving as Minister of Budget and Finance and later Nigeria's High Commissioner to the United Kingdom.

It noted that after leaving public office, he returned to Sokoto where he devoted himself to scholarship, community service and advising the Sokoto State Government on economic and budgetary matters.

The forum described him as a highly respected intellectual, mentor and bridge-builder who remained accessible despite his accomplishments and social standing.

"Triple A embodied the core values of sacrifice for unity and progress that dedicated, steadfast and passionate Arewa sons and daughters have brought and will continue to bring to the Nigerian project," the statement said.

The ACF lamented that his death came at a period when Northern Nigeria and the country were grappling with economic and political challenges, saying his wealth of experience and wise counsel would be greatly missed.

It urged leaders still in positions of authority to emulate the late statesman's commitment to national service, integrity and excellence.

On behalf of the National Executive Council and members of the forum, ACF Chairman, Mamman Mike Osuman, prayed for Allah to forgive the deceased's shortcomings and grant him Aljannatul Firdaus.

The forum also extended condolences to the Government and people of Sokoto State, the Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa'ad Abubakar III, the Sultanate Council, the family of the late statesman and his associates over the loss.