The Chairman of the Northern States Governors’ Forum and Governor of Gombe State, Muhammadu Yahaya, has mourned the death of the former Governor of the old Gongola State and former National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, Bamanga Tukur.

Tukur, also known as Tafidan Adamawa, died in Abuja on Saturday.

In a condolence message issued on behalf of his colleagues in the NSGF by the Director General, Press Affairs, Gombe Government House, Ismaila Misilli, Yahaya described the death of the elder statesman as a profound loss to the North and Nigeria, saying the country had lost one of its most experienced public servants, political leaders and champions of economic development.

He said Tukur’s public service spanned more than six decades, during which he served Nigeria in several critical capacities, including as Chief Executive of the Nigerian Ports Authority, Governor of the old Gongola State and Minister of Industries.

The governor also highlighted Tukur’s contributions to Africa’s economic development through the Africa Business Roundtable and the NEPAD Business Group, as well as his leadership of the PDP as National Chairman between 2012 and 2014.

According to Yahaya, Tukur’s vast experience in public administration, politics, business and continental affairs established him as one of the prominent figures of his generation.

“Alhaji Bamanga Tukur lived a long and impactful life, serving Nigeria in several critical capacities and contributing significantly to the growth of our economy, institutions and political development.

“His wealth of experience, wisdom and commitment to public service will be greatly missed. His death is a great loss to the North and the entire nation,” Inuwa said.

The NSGF chairman commiserated with the government and people of Adamawa State, the Bamanga Tukur family, friends and associates of the deceased.

He prayed to Allah to forgive Tukur’s shortcomings, reward his lifetime of service and grant him paradise.