Former Presidential Chief of Staff, Gen. Mohammed Abdullahi, Passes Away at 86
Nigeria has lost one of its distinguished statesmen as retired General Mohammed Abdullahi, a former Chief of Staff to ex-Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, has passed away at the age of 86.
Family sources confirmed the news on Tuesday, revealing that the elder statesman died peacefully in his Abuja residence after a brief illness.
A Distinguished Military and Political Career
Gen. Abdullahi, who served in various capacities within the Nigerian Army before joining the Presidency, was widely respected for his discipline, patriotism, and commitment to national service.
He played a key advisory role during Obasanjo’s administration (1999–2007) and continued briefly under President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, contributing to Nigeria’s defense reforms and foreign relations strategies.
Throughout his career, Abdullahi was known for maintaining a low profile despite his influence in both military and civilian circles.
Tributes Pour In
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo described Abdullahi as “a loyal officer and a dependable ally in the service of Nigeria.”
Similarly, a statement from the Presidency praised the late general’s contributions to nation-building, noting that “his wisdom and integrity will be deeply missed.”
Political figures, military officers, and citizens have also taken to social media to express condolences, using the hashtag #GenAbdullahi to honor his legacy.
