A delegation from the Defence Headquarters (DHQ), led by the Chief of Administration (Army), Major General IM Abdullahi, paid condolence visits to the family of the late Major General Rabe Abubakar (retd) and the Katsina State Government following the tragic death of the retired senior military officer.
The delegation on Sunday conveyed the condolences of the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General OO Oluyede, and the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) to the bereaved family, as well as the government and people of Katsina State.
Major General Abubakar, a former Director of Defence Information and former Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), died while in the captivity of terrorists after being abducted alongside his wife in Katsina State. According to the Katsina State Government, the retired General succumbed to complications arising from diabetes and hypertension despite efforts by security agencies to secure his release.
At the family residence in Katsina, Major General Abdullahi delivered the condolence message of the CDS and described the late General as a dedicated and patriotic officer who served the nation with distinction in various capacities throughout his military career.
He noted that the deceased made significant contributions to the growth of the Nigerian Army and Nigeria’s security architecture, particularly through his service in strategic military appointments.
The Chief of Administration assured the family that the Armed Forces and relevant security agencies would continue efforts to ensure that those responsible for the abduction are brought to justice. He also reaffirmed the military’s support for the family during the difficult period.
“Major General Abubakar served the Nigerian Army and the nation meritoriously for over three decades. His years of dedicated service and sacrifice will not be forgotten, and his legacy will continue to inspire officers and soldiers of the Armed Forces of Nigeria,” he said.
The delegation later presented a national flag to the family in honour of the late officer’s service and sacrifice to the nation.
Responding on behalf of the family, Alhaji Dikko Mu’azu Ruma, the Gado da Masun Katsina, thanked the CDS and the Armed Forces of Nigeria for their support and solidarity.
“On behalf of the entire family, the good people of Batsari Local Government Area and indeed Katsina State, we sincerely thank the Chief of Defence Staff and the Armed Forces of Nigeria for standing by us, especially during this trying period,” he said.
Earlier, the delegation visited the Katsina State Government House, where they were received by the Deputy Governor, Mallam Faruk Lawal Jobe, on behalf of Governor Dikko Umaru Radda.
During the visit, Major General Abdullahi conveyed the condolences of the CDS and the Armed Forces to the governor, government and people of the state over the loss of one of Katsina’s distinguished sons.
The Deputy Governor described the death of Major General Abubakar as a painful loss to Katsina State and the nation, noting that his commitment to national service and security would remain an enduring source of inspiration to future generations.
