Former Nigerian Ambassador To South Africa, Shehu Malami Is Dead

A former Nigerian Ambassador to South Africa, Shehu Othman Malami, has died at the age of 85.

Naija News reports that the Presidential Spokesman, Garba Shehu, made the disclosure in a statement issued on Monday in Abuja.

The presidential spokesman said President Muhammadu Buhari has expressed sadness over the death of the former diplomat, who died in Cairo, Egypt.

Shehu also quoted President Muhammadu Buhari as saying the death of the Sokoto prince is “sad and shocking”, stressing that his death is a big loss to the nation.

Shehu quoted Buhari as saying: “This is such shocking and sad news. I am absolutely stunned to hear this. It is another reminder of how fragile life is.

“He was a business leader respected globally who believed in this country’s economic prowess. He was an icon of business and industry and a graceful traditionalist.

“His passing is a big loss to the nation. Condolences to his family and friends, the Sultanate, and the government and people of Sokoto State.”

Malami, who was a technocrat, entrepreneur, and administrator, held the position of Sarkin Sudan of Wurno, an esteemed title of the Sokoto Caliphate.

He also played a major role in the development of some commercial banks and several companies, including Costain West Africa, Nigeria Industrial Development Bank, PZ, and Indo-Nigeria Merchant Bank.

The former Ambassador was a member of the executive committee of the Nigeria-USA Business Council and a member of the International Advisory Council and World Economic Forum Foundation.