Ex-NIA DG, Amb Zakari Ibrahim, Dies At 81

Ambassador Zakari Ibrahim, the Talban Katsina and former director-general of the National Intelligence Agency (NIA), has passed at 81.

Ibrahim left behind a legacy of dedication to national security and peace-building.

His demise has drawn tributes from prominent figures, including Governor Dikko Umar Radda of Katsina State and Hon Abdullahi Aliyu Ahmed, the Dujiman Katsina and Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Interior.

Ahmed, who represents Musawa/Matazu Federal Constituency, expressed profound grief in a statement signed by his special assistant on Media, Sardauna Francis. In it, Francis described the late Talban Katsina as a „gem of inestimable value“ whose contributions to Nigeria’s security architecture remain indelible.

“Innalillahi Wainna Ilaihi Raji’un. I received the news of Ambassador Zakari Ibrahim passing with profound sadness and grief. He was a formidable pillar in peace-building and a significant loss to our nation,“ Ahmed said.

He extended his condolences to the Katsina Emirate Council, particularly the Emir, Dr. Abdulmumini Kabir Usman, and the people of Katsina State.

Governor Dikko Umar Radda also mourned the late diplomat, praising his decades-long service to the nation and commitment to fostering tranquillity in challenging times.

Ambassador Zakari Ibrahim, a seasoned security expert and the first National Counterterrorism Coordinator played a pivotal role in shaping Nigeria’s intelligence and counterterrorism efforts. His contributions earned him widespread respect as a statesman who prioritised national unity and security.

The loss of Talban Katsina marks the end of an era for Katsina State and the nation as leaders and citizens alike celebrate his extraordinary life and service.