FORMER NIA BOSS, TALBAN KATSINA DIES AT 81

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Nigeria’s seasoned diplomat and former Director-General of the National Intelligence Agency (NIA), Ambassador Zakari Ibrahim, has passed away at the age of 81.

Ambassador Ibrahim reportedly died in the early hours of Sunday.

His exact cause of death has not been disclosed as of the time of filing this report.

Ambassador Ibrahim, a native of Katsina State, held the prestigious traditional title of Talban Katsina, within the Katsina Emirate.

He was a schoolmate of former Nigeria President, Muhammad Buhari at Katsina Government College(GCK).

The Talban Katsina served as the Director-General of the National Intelligence Agency from 1993 to 1998.

He also held the position of Minister of State for Foreign Affairs in the early 1990s. In 2011, the Talban Katsina was appointed by President Goodluck Jonathan to coordinate national anti-terrorism efforts.

According to the source, the remains of Ambassador Zakari Ibrahim, is expected to arrive in his home state of Katsina on Sunday afternoon for burial.

Reacting to the development, Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda expressed profound grief over the passing of Ambassador Zakari Ibrahim.

In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Kaula Mohamed, Governor Radda described the late Ambassador Ibrahim as an illustrious son of Katsina who served Nigeria with distinction in various capacities.

Governor Radda stated: “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.

“As Talban Katsina, Ambassador Ibrahim exemplified the noble values of our traditional institution and served as a bridge between tradition and modern governance.”

The Katsina Governor extended heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased, the Katsina Emirate Council, and the entire people of Katsina State.

He prayed for Allah (SWT) to grant the departed soul Al-jannatul Fridaus and give the family the fortitude to bear this monumental loss.