By Umar Idris Shuaibu, Kano
As 2025 gradually draws to a close, Nigeria and the global community reflect on the passing of several influential figures whose lives and works shaped governance, religion, business, traditional institutions, and public service.
From revered Islamic scholars and traditional rulers to political leaders and senior public servants, the year witnessed the end of notable eras and the departure of voices that left lasting imprints on society.
Below are some of the prominent personalities who passed away in 2025, beginning with Nigerians before notable non-Nigerian figures.
Sheikh Idris Abdul’aziz Dutsen Tanshi (68) — Islamic Scholar
Prominent Bauchi-based Islamic cleric, Sheikh Idris Abdul’aziz Dutsen Tanshi, passed away on April 3, 2025, after a prolonged illness. Widely respected for his scholarship and principled religious teachings, the cleric played a significant role in Islamic discourse and community engagement across northern Nigeria.
Alhaji Aminu Dantata (94) — Business Icon and Philanthropist
Renowned Kano-born businessman and philanthropist, Alhaji Aminu Dantata, died on June 28, 2025, at the age of 94. A towering figure in Nigeria’s private sector, Dantata’s decades-long business career spanned construction, manufacturing, and commerce.
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Beyond business, he was known for his quiet philanthropy and support for education, health, and social welfare initiatives.
Former President Muhammadu Buhari (82)
Nigeria’s former President, Muhammadu Buhari, passed away on July 13, 2025, at the age of 82. A former military Head of State and two-term civilian president, Buhari was a central figure in Nigeria’s political evolution, known for his anti-corruption stance and disciplined leadership style that shaped national discourse for decades.
Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin (90)
Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, was thrown into mourning following the death of the Olubadan, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, on July 7, 2025, at the age of 90. His reign, though brief, was marked by dignity, adherence to tradition, and a deep commitment to the cultural heritage of Ibadanland.
Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona (91)
On the same day, July 13, 2025, Ijebuland also lost its paramount ruler, the Awujale, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, who passed away at the age of 91. One of Nigeria’s longest-reigning traditional rulers, Oba Adetona was widely respected for his forthright views, modern outlook, and contributions to education and development in Ogun State.
Emir of Gusau, Dr. Ibrahim Bello (71)
The Emir of Gusau in Zamfara State, Dr. Ibrahim Bello, passed away on Friday, July 25, at the age of 71 after a protracted illness in Abuja. The 16th Emir of Gusau, Bello ascended the throne following the death of his father on March 16, 2015.
A seasoned civil servant, he rose to the pinnacle of his career as a Permanent Secretary during his service in the old Sokoto and later Zamfara State, and went on to serve as Emir for over 10 years, leaving behind a legacy of administrative experience and traditional leadership.
Emir of Zuru, Major General Muhammadu Sani Sami (Gomo II) (81)
The Emir of Zuru in Kebbi State, Major General Muhammadu Sani Sami (retd.), passed away in London on August 17, 2025, after a brief illness. A former military officer and respected traditional ruler, the late emir combined military discipline with traditional leadership, earning admiration within and beyond his domain.
Former Inspector-General of Police, Solomon Arase (69)
Former Inspector-General of Police, Solomon Arase, died on August 31, 2025, at the age of 69. During his service in the Nigeria Police Force, Arase rose through the ranks and later served as IGP, contributing to internal reforms and security operations during a challenging period for national policing.
Major General Abdullahi Adangba Mohammed (retd.) (86)
Former Chief of Staff to ex-President Olusegun Obasanjo, Major General Abdullahi Adangba Mohammed (retd.), passed away on 5th November at the age of 86 at his residence in Kaduna. Fondly known as Adangba, the Ilorin-born officer also served as Military Governor of the old Benue-Plateau State between 1975 and February 1976 during the Murtala Mohammed administration.
Sheikh Dahiru Usman Bauchi (98) — Leader of the Tijaniyya Movement
One of Nigeria’s most revered Islamic leaders, Sheikh Dahiru Usman Bauchi, passed away on November 26, 2025, at the age of 98. As the spiritual head of the Tijaniyyah movement, his influence spanned generations, shaping religious thought, scholarship, and spiritual guidance across Nigeria and beyond.
Kano Loses Two Serving State Assembly Members
On December 24, 2025, Kano State mourned the tragic passing of two serving members of the State House of Assembly, Hon. Aminu Sa’ad Ungoggo, representing Ungoggo Constituency, and Hon. Sarki Aliyu Daneji, who represented Kano Municipal. Their deaths marked a painful moment for the state legislature and underscored the fragility of public life.
Notable Non-Nigerian Figures Who Passed in 2025
Sheikh Abdulaziz Al-Sheikh (82) — Saudi Arabia’s Grand Mufti
Saudi Arabia’s Grand Mufti and Head of the Council of Senior Scholars, Sheikh Abdulaziz Al-Sheikh, passed away in Riyadh on September 23, 2025, at the age of 82. A globally influential Islamic authority, he played a central role in shaping religious rulings and discourse within the Kingdom and the wider Muslim world.
Raila Odinga (80) — Former Prime Minister of Kenya
Veteran Kenyan opposition leader and former Prime Minister, Raila Odinga, died on October 15, 2025, at the age of 80 in Kochi, India, following a cardiac arrest. Widely regarded as a symbol of democratic struggle in Kenya, Odinga’s political career spanned decades of advocacy for reform, pluralism, and constitutional governance in East Africa.
As the curtain gradually falls on 2025, the deaths of these figures serve as reminders of the enduring impact individuals can have on society. Their legacies rooted in leadership, service, faith, and commitment to public good continue to shape conversations and memories long after their passing.
For Nigeria in particular, the year marked the loss of voices that once guided governance, commerce, spirituality, and tradition, leaving behind lessons for generations yet to come.