Baba-Ahmed dies as President Tinubu recalls personal ties

President Bola Tinubu has publicly mourned the death of Malam Nafiu Baba-Ahmed, Secretary-General of the Supreme Council for Shari'ah in Nigeria, who passed away in the early hours of Tuesday, October 6, 2026.

Tinubu's Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, issued a statement on Tuesday, October 6, in which the President paid tribute to Baba-Ahmed as a respected administrator and religious leader who devoted his career to Islam and to Nigeria.

Tinubu recalls personal ties with Baba-Ahmed

The President described Baba-Ahmed as "an impactful leader" who guided the Supreme Council for Shari'ah in Nigeria with wisdom, foresight and a deep commitment to unity, justice and peaceful coexistence.

According to the statement, Tinubu had maintained a long-standing relationship with the late Baba-Ahmed, one that stretched back to the period leading up to the 2011 general election.

The deceased also offered counsel and support to Tinubu during his successful 2023 presidential campaign. Beyond their personal connection, Tinubu recognised Baba-Ahmed's broader contributions to national life, noting his role in keeping the Council relevant in public discourse and in championing moral renewal and social justice.

"The President notes Malam Baba-Ahmed's pivotal role in sustaining the Council's voice on national issues, fostering greater understanding, and promoting the values of moral renewal and social justice," the statement read.

Tinubu extends condolences over Baba-Ahmed

Tinubu extended his condolences to the leadership and members of the Supreme Council for Shari'ah in Nigeria, the Baba-Ahmed family, the Kaduna State Government and its people, as well as the broader Nigerian Muslim community.

"The President prays that Almighty Allah forgives his shortcomings, admits him to Jannatul Firdaus, and grants his family and the Muslim Ummah the fortitude to bear this loss," the statement added.

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President Tinubu Mourns Secretary-General of Supreme Council for Shari'ah in Nigeria, Malam Nafiu Baba-Ahmed. https://t.co/SBl2gkT9Qk

— Presidency Nigeria (@NGRPresident) October 6, 2026