Breaking: Nigeria mourns as former presidential chief of staff dies

Nigeria and the military community have lost one of their finest officers, Major General Abdullahi Mohammed (rtd), who passed away in the early hours of Wednesday, November 5, 2025, in Abuja.
General Mohammed, who served as Chief of Staff to former Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, was widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s most respected and accomplished public servants.

According to report, the retired General died quietly at his Abuja residence. Although the cause of death was not disclosed, it is believed to be age-related. He was in his late 80s.

A proud son of Ilorin, Kwara State, General Mohammed lived a life deeply rooted in discipline, loyalty, and service to the nation. After the end of President Obasanjo’s administration, he was persuaded to remain in office under President Yar’Adua to ensure a smooth transition and stability within the new government.

Throughout his distinguished career, he held several high-profile and sensitive national positions. He served as the National Security Adviser (NSA) to then Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar, from 1998 to 1999, and was the Director-General of the now-defunct National Security Organization (NSO) between 1976 and 1979.

Earlier in his career, from July 1975 to February 1976, he was the Military Governor of the defunct Benue-Plateau State under the administration of the late Head of State, General Murtala Mohammed.

Born in 1938 in Ilorin, General Mohammed was married to his beloved wife, Stella, a Christian from Delta State. He often described her as “the woman who gives me joy.”

He is survived by his wife and children, who, along with numerous friends and colleagues, fondly called him “Baba.”

His burial is scheduled to take place later today in Abuja, in accordance with Islamic rites.

May his gentle soul rest in peace.