By Gideon Maxwell
March 27, 2026
Former Kaduna State governor, Malam Nasir El-Rufai, has lost his mother, Hajiya Umma El-Rufai, in a development that has drawn nationwide attention and sympathy across political and social circles.
Hajiya Umma El-Rufai passed away on Friday in Cairo, Egypt, after a period of illness where she had reportedly been receiving medical treatment.
Her death was first made public by a family member in a solemn message, invoking Islamic prayers and acknowledging the end of a life regarded as impactful within the family and community.
She was believed to be about 100 years old, a remarkable lifespan that many condolence messages have referenced as evidence of a fulfilled and meaningful life.
Her passing has been described by associates as the loss of a matriarch whose influence extended beyond her immediate family into broader community values of compassion, discipline, and faith.
The circumstances surrounding her death coincided with a sensitive moment in El-Rufai’s personal situation, as he was said to have been away receiving attention on other pressing matters before the news broke.
Condolences have poured in from across Nigeria’s political spectrum, reflecting the wide reach of the family and the respect commanded by the former governor in national discourse.
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President described the late matriarch as a woman who lived a remarkable life and raised children and grandchildren who have contributed meaningfully to the country.
He acknowledged the depth of losing a mother, noting it is a pain that words cannot fully address.
Former Vice President also expressed sorrow, praying for the repose of her soul and strength for the family.
Kaduna State governor described her as a woman of rare grace, humility, and moral strength whose life embodied service and unity.
National Security Adviser recalled personal moments with the deceased, describing her as a caring and motherly figure whose loss is deeply felt.
In Abuja, El-Rufai has been receiving a steady stream of condolence visits from political allies and associates, reflecting both his stature in national politics and the widespread empathy for his loss.
The death also comes at a time the family is said to be navigating multiple emotional moments, further deepening the weight of this loss.
As of now, details regarding the final burial arrangements are yet to be formally announced, though Islamic rites are expected to guide the proceedings.
What remains clear is that the passing of Hajiya Umma El-Rufai marks the end of a long life that shaped one of Nigeria’s prominent political figures, while also reminding the public of the human realities behind national leadership.
