President Bola Tinubu has mourned the death of former National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, Bamanga Mohammed Tukur, describing the late politician and businessman as a prominent figure in Nigeria’s political and economic development.
Tukur died on Saturday at the age of 90, according to a statement from his family signed by his son, Hon. Awwal D. Tukur.
In a condolence statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu described Tukur as a “towering figure” whose career spanned public administration, politics, industry and business leadership in Nigeria and across Africa.
Born on September 15, 1935, Tukur served as the General Manager of the Nigerian Ports Authority from 1975 to 1982. According to the presidency, he contributed to the development of Nigeria’s maritime sector during his tenure.
He later entered politics and was elected governor of the old Gongola State in 1983. Gongola State was subsequently divided into the present-day Adamawa and Taraba states.
Paying tribute to the late politician, Tinubu described Tukur as a man committed to public service and enterprise.
“Alhaji Tukur was urbane, generous and deeply rooted in the values of integrity and service that the Adamawa Emirate and the nation hold dear.”
The President added that Tukur believed strongly in Nigeria’s potential and made contributions across several sectors.
“He was a man of big ideas and bold enterprise who believed in Nigeria’s limitless potential. Nigeria will sorely miss his wise counsel and fatherly guidance.”
Beyond politics, Tukur was involved in the private sector as Chairman of BHI Holdings and the DADDO Group of Companies, with interests reportedly spanning manufacturing, agriculture, logistics and trading.
He also held prominent positions in continental business organisations, including serving as Executive President of the African Business Roundtable and Chairman of the NEPAD Business Group.
Tukur returned to national political prominence when he became National Chairman of the PDP in March 2012, serving until January 2014 during the administration of former President Goodluck Jonathan.
Tinubu expressed his condolences to the Tukur family, the Fombina Emirate of Adamawa, the Adamawa State Government and members of Nigeria’s political and business communities.
He prayed for the repose of Tukur’s soul and asked Allah to forgive his shortcomings and grant him Aljannah Firdaus, while also praying for comfort for his family and other mourners.
How did this story make you feel?
Join the conversation
Share a thoughtful response. Submissions may be reviewed before appearing.
