Ex-NIA Boss, Ambassador Zakari Ibrahim, Dies at 81

Ambassador Zakari Ibrahim, a former Director-General of the National Intelligence Agency (NIA) and a distinguished Nigerian diplomat, has passed away at the age of 81.

Ibrahim died in the early hours of Sunday, although the exact cause of death has not been disclosed.

A native of Katsina State and holder of the traditional title Talban Katsina, Ambassador Ibrahim was a prominent figure in Nigeria’s intelligence and diplomatic circles.

He served as the Director-General of the NIA from 1993 to 1998 and was also Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs in the early 1990s. In 2011, he was appointed by then-President Goodluck Jonathan to coordinate the country’s national anti-terrorism efforts.

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The news of his passing has drawn an outpouring of tributes, particularly from his home state of Katsina.

Katsina State Governor Malam Dikko Umaru Radda expressed deep sorrow over the loss, describing Ibrahim as an “illustrious son” who contributed significantly to Nigeria’s security and diplomacy.

In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Kaula Mohamed, Governor 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.”

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He added that Ibrahim, as Talban Katsina, exemplified the noble values of the state’s traditional institutions, serving as a bridge between tradition and modern governance.

Governor Radda extended his heartfelt condolences to Ibrahim’s family, the Katsina Emirate Council, and the people of Katsina State. He also prayed for the deceased’s soul to rest in Al-jannatul Fridaus and for strength for his family to bear the loss.