Former Minister of Finance and Sardaunan Sokoto, Alhaji Abubakar Alhaji, has died at the age of 87.

Family sources confirmed that the elder statesman passed away in Abuja on Thursday.

Details surrounding his death were not immediately disclosed.

Alhaji held several key positions in Nigeria’s public service, including serving as Minister of State for Budget and Planning in 1988 before his appointment as Minister of Finance between 1990 and 1991 under the military administration of former President Ibrahim Babangida.

Following his tenure in government, he was appointed Nigeria’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, a position he held from 1992 to 1996. During his diplomatic service, he played a role in strengthening relations between Nigeria and the UK.

Before joining the Federal Executive Council, Alhaji built a distinguished career in the civil service, rising to the rank of Permanent Secretary. He served in several strategic ministries, including Finance, Trade, Industries and National Planning, where he contributed to policy formulation and public administration.

Beyond public service, Alhaji was a respected traditional title holder. In 1990, he was turbaned as the Sardaunan Sokoto, one of the most prestigious titles in the Sokoto Caliphate, succeeding the late Premier of Northern Nigeria, Sir Ahmadu Bello.

In that capacity, he served as a link between the traditional institution, government and the wider society, earning recognition for his contributions to public service and community leadership.

The family said details of his funeral arrangements would be announced later in accordance with Islamic rites.