Why Ahmed Rufai Abubakar Resigned as NIA Director General

Ahmed Rufai Abubakar, the former Director General of the National Intelligence Agency (NIA), recently addressed the media following his resignation from this key position in Nigeria’s security architecture. Speaking to the press, Abubakar clarified his reasons for stepping down, stating that his decision was primarily driven by personal and family considerations. He emphasized that his resignation was not due to any significant issues, and there was no controversy surrounding his departure as NIA DG.

Abubakar had previously briefed President Bola Tinubu before tendering his resignation, which was “graciously approved and accepted” by the president. He reassured that his relationship with President Tinubu remains strong, even after leaving the role.

Expressing his gratitude, Abubakar thanked President Tinubu for allowing him to serve during the first 15 months of the new administration. He initially assumed the position in 2018, appointed by former President Muhammadu Buhari, who extended his tenure in December 2021.

Abubakar, a seasoned 71-year-old retired foreign service officer from Katsina State, joined the Nigerian Foreign Service’s security department in 1993. His career highlights include serving as the Senior Special Assistant to the President (SSAP) on International Relations and Foreign Affairs in 2015. A graduate of Bayero University in Kano, Abubakar holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in French and is fluent in English and Arabic.