Nigerian diplomat and former Director-General of the National Intelligence Agency, Zakari Ibrahim, has passed away at the age of 81.
He died in the early hours of Sunday. Although the exact cause of his death has not yet been disclosed.
A native of Katsina State, Ibrahim was highly regarded in his community, holding the prestigious traditional title of Talban Katsina within the Katsina Emirate.
He shared his educational journey with Nigeria’s former President, Muhammadu Buhari, as they were schoolmates at the Katsina Government College.
During his illustrious career, Ambassador Ibrahim served as the Director-General of the National Intelligence Agency from 1993 to 1998.
His diplomatic career also saw him appointed as Minister of State for Foreign Affairs in the early 1990s. In 2011, he was chosen by President Goodluck Jonathan to coordinate the national effort against terrorism, further solidifying his commitment to national security.
The late ambassador’s remains are expected to arrive in Katsina on Sunday afternoon, where he will be laid to rest in accordance with local customs.
Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Ambassador Ibrahim.
In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Kaula Mohamed, Governor Radda hailed the late diplomat as an “illustrious son of Katsina” who made invaluable contributions to Nigeria in various high-level capacities.
Radda said, “The passing of Ambassador Zakari Ibrahim represents an irreparable loss not only to Katsina State but to Nigeria as a whole. His remarkable contributions to national security and diplomacy have left an indelible mark on our nation’s history.”
He also noted that as Talban Katsina, Ambassador Ibrahim was a true representation of the noble values embedded in the region’s traditional institutions, and he effectively bridged the gap between tradition and modern governance.
The governor offered his heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased, the Katsina Emirate Council, and the entire people of Katsina State. He concluded by praying for Allah (SWT) to grant Ambassador Ibrahim Al-jannatul Fridaus and to provide his family with the strength to endure this monumental loss.
