SGF Mourns Joda, Shagari’s Passage

Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of the elder statesman, Ahmed Joda and former First Lady, Hajiya Hadiza Shagari.
In a statement yesterday, he described the death of Joda, who died in Yola yesterday at the age of 91 as a personal loss, noting he derived inspiration and guidance from his wise counsel in the execution of government activities.

He lauded Joda’s sterling contribution in 2015, when he was appointed the Chairman of the Presidential Transition Committee, which led to a successful transition.

Joda, who was a retired Federal Permanent Secretary in the 70s, carried out extensive reforms in the public service besides serving on the boards of various government agencies and private companies. He was an astute administrator, journalist and businessman.

The SGF said he took consolation in the fact that the deceased made unparalleled contributions in various aspects of human endeavour to impact on the growth and development of the country.
Similarly, the SGF also mourned the passing away of Hajiya Hadiza Shagari, the widow of the late former President of Nigeria, Alhaji Shehu Shagari.

He described the matriarch as a humble and dutiful wife of the late former President, particularly in overseeing all family matters which enabled the former President to concentrate on service to the nation.

He expressed his sincere condolences to the Government and people of Adamawa State, Sokoto State, His Eminence, the Sultan of Sokoto, their families and prayed to God to grant the deceased Al-Jannah Firdaus.