Former Nigerian Ambassador AbdulAzeez Passes Away At 71

The late AbdulAzeez, an indigene of Ilorin, Kwara State, was a retired senior officer of the National Intelligence Agency and previously served as Nigeria’s Ambassador to the People’s Republic of China. His death was confirmed on Sunday by the current National President of the Ilorin Emirate Descendants Progressive Union, Alhaji AbdulMumin AbdulMalik, who announced that burial rites would take place the same day in line with Islamic tradition.

Messages of condolence have continued to trail the passing of the respected statesman. Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, described the late ambassador as a man of integrity whose life left a lasting positive impact on his community and the nation. In a statement released through his Chief Press Secretary, the governor offered prayers for divine forgiveness and strength for the bereaved family.

Former Senate President, Dr Abubakar Bukola Saraki, also expressed deep sorrow over the loss, describing AbdulAzeez as a highly accomplished diplomat, intelligence expert, elder statesman, and a unifying figure within the Ilorin Emirate and beyond. He noted that the late envoy’s life was defined by selfless service to humanity.

The Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, similarly described the death as a monumental loss to the Ilorin Emirate and the wider society. In a condolence message, the monarch extended sympathies to the family, the leadership and members of the IEDPU, as well as friends and associates of the deceased.

Born on February 18, 1952, in Ilorin, AbdulAzeez began his educational journey at Native Authority Primary School, Bussa, before proceeding to the then Ilorin Teachers College. He later obtained a Bachelor’s degree in Geography from Abdullahi Bayero College of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, followed by postgraduate degrees from the University of Jos and the University of Ibadan. He also attended the National Defence College, Abuja, where he earned awards for outstanding performance.

His professional career spanned academia, intelligence, and diplomacy. After serving as a lecturer and head of department at the Advanced Teachers College in Sokoto, he joined the National Intelligence Agency in 1985 and rose to the top cadre of the service. He later played a key role in efforts that culminated in the establishment of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission.

AbdulAzeez represented Nigeria in several international assignments, including postings in Egypt, Angola, Liberia, and China. He was appointed Ambassador to China in 2010, during which time he oversaw notable engagements, including hosting the launch of Nigeria’s satellite in December 2011.

He is remembered as a dedicated public servant whose contributions to national development and diplomacy left an enduring legacy.