By Ibrahim Kegbegbe
Today, April 17, marks five years since the passing of Mallam Abba Kyari, the former Chief of Staff to President Muhammadu Buhari, who died in 2020 after contracting COVID-19. His death, during the height of the global pandemic, was a moment of national mourning and reflection.
Mallam Kyari was more than just a political figure. He was a man of intellect, discretion, and unwavering commitment to public service. Despite the controversies that surrounded his role in government, his reputation for diligence, discipline, and loyalty earned him deep respect among colleagues and political observers.
Born in 1952, Kyari’s academic and professional journey was marked by excellence. He studied Sociology at the University of Warwick and later earned a law degree from the University of Cambridge. He further honed his leadership skills at the International Institute for Management Development (IMD) in Switzerland and the Harvard Business School.
His career spanned journalism, banking, and law. He worked with the now-defunct New Nigerian newspaper as an editor and later held senior positions at African International Bank and United Bank for Africa (UBA). In 2015, he was appointed Chief of Staff to President Buhari—a role in which he became the President’s closest confidant and principal gatekeeper until his death on April 17, 2020.
“Kyari was often misunderstood,” said a former presidential aide. “But beneath his silence was a deeply patriotic Nigerian who believed in structure, order, and service without noise.”
As the nation marks this solemn anniversary, Nigerians are reminded of the quiet sacrifices made by public servants who operate away from the spotlight. Kyari’s legacy offers a powerful lesson in humility, commitment, and the cost of responsibility. His final days—working while battling illness—speak volumes about his dedication.
May Allah forgive his shortcomings and grant him Aljannah Firdaus.
As we reflect on his life and service, his story challenges current and future leaders to embrace integrity, competence, and loyalty to national interest above all else.
