Katsina Governor, Radda, Others Mourn As Former NIA DG, Zakari Ibrahim, Dies At 81

By Kolawole Ojebisi 

The Katsina State Governor, Dikko Umar Radda has extended his heartfelt sympathy to the family of former Director-General of the National Intelligence Agency (NIA), Ambassador Zakari Ibrahim over the death of its patriarch.

The condolence message was contained in a statement issued by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Kaula Mohamed, on Sunday.

The statement described Ibrahim as an “illustrious son of Katsina” who served Nigeria with distinction in various capacities.

“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 governor said.

Radda also highlighted the late diplomat’s role as a bridge between tradition and modern governance, praising his embodiment of noble values.

He also extended heartfelt condolences to the family of the Katsina Emirate Council, and the entire people of Katsina State.

The governor prayed for Allah (SWT) to grant the departed soul Al-Jannatul Firdaus and provide the family with the strength to bear this monumental loss.

Zakari Ibrahim, reportedly breathed his last at the age of 81 in the early hours of Sunday.

He held the prestigious traditional title of Talban Katsina within the Katsina Emirate.

Ibrahim was a schoolmate of former President Muhammadu Buhari at Katsina Government College.

The deceased had a distinguished career in public service. He served as the Director-General of the NIA from 1993 to 1998 and was Minister of State for Foreign Affairs in the early 1990s. In 2011, he was appointed by President Goodluck Jonathan to coordinate national anti-terrorism efforts, further solidifying his legacy as a key figure in Nigeria’s security and diplomatic landscape.

Ambassador Ibrahim’s remains are expected to arrive in Katsina State on Sunday for burial according to Islamic rites.