Abdullahi Abubakar

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. During the attack, Imam Abubakar was able to save the lives of 262 people, predominantly Christians from the Birom tribe in an example of interfaith solidarity, by sheltering them in his mosque while the attackers roamed the villages. He personally negotiated with the assailants to prevent further killings and organized safe evacuation routes for vulnerable residents. ==Recognition==

Abubakar received international attention for his bravery and humanitarian leadership. He was praised as a symbol of moral courage, interfaith cooperation, and the protection of civilians in conflict situations. 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 is remembered for his unwavering commitment to human life, his promotion of interreligious harmony, and his decisive leadership during the 2018 Barkin Ladi attacks, which remains a lasting example of courage and humanitarian service. == 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 == References ==