The Northern Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NNGF) has expressed grief over the demise of former Nigerian High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Alhaji Abubakar Alhaji (Sardaunan Sokoto), who passed away Thursday in Abuja. In a condolence message, the Chairman of the Forum and Governor of Gombe State, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, described the late Alhaji Alhaji as an accomplished public servant and respected elder statesman who made immense contributions to national development through decades of exemplary service. He recalled that Alhaji Alhaji served with distinction as Minister of National Planning and later Minister of Finance during the administration of General Ibrahim Babangida, where he played significant roles in shaping Nigeria’s economic policies. Governor Yahaya said the death of Alhaji Abubakar Alhaji is a huge loss not only to his family and the people of Sokoto State but also to Northern Nigeria and the nation, which benefited immensely from his vast experience, exemplary leadership and invaluable counsel. He prayed Almighty Allah (SWT) to forgive the shortcomings of the late Alhaji Alhaji and reward his lifetime of service with Aljannat Firdaus.