U.S. Mission Condoles With Imam Abdullahi’s Family, Hails Legacy

The United States Mission in Nigeria has condoled with the family and loved ones of Imam Abubakar Abdullahi, who passed away after a brief illness on January 15, 2026.

In a tweet on Tuesday, the mission described the late cleric as a fearless advocate of religious tolerance with a long history of outreach across religious communities in Nigeria.

“Mission Nigeria offers condolences to the loved ones of Imam Abubakar Abdullahi following his passing on January 15.  Imam Abdullahi was a fearless advocate for religious tolerance and had a long history of outreach across religious communities,” the message on its official X handle read.

The mission further stated that Abdullahi’s commitment to harmony among different faiths would continue to inspire Nigerians and Americans alike, even after his passing.

“The Department of State formally recognised Imam Abdullahi with the 2019 International Religious Freedom Award for his courageous efforts in June of 2018, which saved the lives of hundreds of Christians who were being attacked in Barkin Ladi, Plateau state.

“His humanity positively manifested interfaith coexistence and harmony, and we know his legacy of peace and acceptance will live on and continue to inspire Nigerians and Americans alike,” the mission said.

Abdullahi passed on at the age of 90. He was known for sheltering and saving nearly 300 Christians during a violent attack in his Barkin Ladi community in 2018.

President Bola Tinubu, former vice president Atiku Abubakar, 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr Peter Obi, and CAN, among others, had mourned him.