Former Nigerian ambassador to Kenya Yusuf Yunusa is dead.
Yunusa is reported to have died on Friday, November 17, 2023, at the Yobe University Teaching Hospital, Damaturu, after a brief illness.
The ambassador died aged 73.
His death comes close to two months after he was recalled from his role in Kenya by Nigeria's President Bola Tinubu.
He was appointed by Tinubu’s predecessor Muhammadu Buhari.
President Tinubu recalled a number of ambassadors in what he termed as changes aimed at ensuring "world-class efficiency and quality".
“The President is determined to ensure world-class efficiency and quality, will henceforth, characterize foreign and domestic service delivery to citizens, residents and prospective visitors alike,” the statement, signed by Ajuri Ngelale, President Tinubu’s Spokesperson, read in part.
Born in 1950, Yunusa is survived by four wives, 21 children, and several grandchildren.
Yunusa's career
He started his career as a teacher, rising through the ranks to become a director in many ministries before becoming the Permanent Secretary for Local Government.
He would later become the Chairman of the Yobe State Local Government Service Commission and later the Commissioner and Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to Kenya.
In his condolence message, Senator Ahmad Lawan termed Yunusa as a true leader and advocate for Nigeria.
"Amb. Yunusa was a true leader and advocate for our dear country, working tirelessly to promote peace and cooperation between Nigeria and Kenya. His passing is a great loss not only to his family and loved ones, but also to the international community," Lawan said.
"His dedication to diplomacy and commitment to fostering strong ties between Nigeria and Kenya will always be remembered."
He was laid to rest in Yobe State.
