Atiku Abubakar pays final respects to late Prof. Jibril Aminu
…describes him as a national treasure
By Kunle Sanni
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar joined Muslim worshippers at the National Mosque in Abuja on Wednesday to perform funeral prayers (Janazah) for the late Professor Jibril Aminu, who passed away earlier in the day at the age of 85.
In a heartfelt tribute, Atiku described the late elder statesman as “an academic of great repute” and a “national treasure” whose contributions to medicine, education, and public service left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s history.
“Professor Jibril Aminu was a man of towering intellect and unmatched dedication to national development,” Atiku wrote in a condolence message. “His passing is not only a great loss to Adamawa but to Nigeria and humanity at large.”
He highlighted Aminu’s remarkable career, which spanned several decades of public service—including his roles as Minister of Education (1989–1990), Minister of Petroleum (1990–1992), Ambassador to the United States (1999–2003), and Senator for Adamawa Central (2003–2007). The late professor also served as a Visiting Professor of Medicine at Howard University, Washington, D.C., from 1979 to 1980.
Atiku, who hails from the same Adamawa State as the late professor, noted that Aminu’s influence extended beyond politics and medicine, stating that his legacy in strengthening democratic institutions and mentoring future leaders remains “legendary.”
“May his family and friends be comforted, and may his soul be granted Aljannat Firdaus. Ameen,” he prayed.
