Abdullahi Abubakar

Abdullahi Abubakar (1 January 1936 – 15 January 2026) was a Nigerian Islamic cleric and humanitarian. He is best known for saving the lives of 262 non-Muslims, predominantly Christian, during an attack on his community by armed bandits in 2018.

Early life and education Abubakar was born in Bauchi, Northern Region, Nigeria, in 1936. He grew up in a religious family and memorized the Qur’an at an early age. As a youth, he was known for his devotion to community service and helping the poor. He trained under prominent Islamic scholars in Bauchi and surrounding areas, gaining knowledge in Islamic jurisprudence, theology, and leadership. This foundation prepared him to become a respected religious leader and mediator in his community.

Humanitarian leadership Imam Abubakar served as the Chief Imam of Akwatti Mosque in Nghar, a community in the Barkin Ladi local government area of Plateau State. In 2018, Yelwan Gindi Akwati, Swei, and Nghar villages were attacked by suspected bandits, resulting in the deaths of approximately 80 people.

In August 2019, President Buhari authorized the inclusion of Imam Abdullahi Abubakar in the membership of the national Ulama committee and was part of an 80-man Ulama committee charged with the responsibility of educating Nigerian pilgrims in Mina during the 2019 Hajj.

Legacy He played a role in protecting civilians, promoting interreligious dialogue, and leading responses during the 2018 Barkin Ladi attacks.

Death Abubakar died on 15 January 2026 at a hospital in Jos, Plateau State, after a brief illness, at the age of 90. His death was widely mourned across Nigeria and internationally, with tributes from religious leaders, government officials, and humanitarian organisations.

Awards US International Religious Freedom Award (2019) Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) Award of Excellence