The Emir of Gumel in Jigawa State, Alhaji Dr Ahmed Muhammad Sani II, CON, has died in Cairo, Egypt, after nearly 46 years on the throne.
The revered traditional ruler died on Thursday, September 3, 2026, while receiving medical care in Egypt.
The Jigawa State Government confirmed his death, describing it as a profound loss to the Gumel Emirate and the people of the state.
The late monarch ascended the throne on December 16, 1980, following the death of his father, and became the 16th Emir of Gumel. He went on to become one of Northern Nigeria’s longest-serving traditional rulers.
Born on December 12, 1942, Ahmed Muhammad Sani II had a distinguished career in public service before becoming Emir. He worked with the Gumel Native Authority and the Nigeria Immigration Service and later served as Commissioner for Information, Internal Affairs and Culture in the old Kano State between 1978 and 1980.
During his time as commissioner, he was associated with the establishment of The Triumph newspaper and CTV 67 television station, as well as the expansion of Radio Kano.
The late Emir received his early education at Gumel Primary School, Hadejia Middle School and Rumfa College, Kano. He later obtained qualifications in Public Administration from the Institute of Administration, Zaria, and studied Political Science and International Relations at Ohio University in the United States.
As Emir, Sani II was widely recognised for his emphasis on peace, education, cultural preservation and community development.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in a condolence message, described the late monarch as a distinguished scholar, administrator and statesman whose contributions extended beyond the traditional institution.
Tinubu said the Emir’s reign was marked by efforts to promote education, Islamic scholarship, unity among diverse communities and the preservation of Gumel’s cultural heritage.
The President also described him as a father to all and a beacon of wisdom whose counsel would be greatly missed.
The late monarch was honoured with the national award of Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON) for his contributions to national unity and development.
The Jigawa State Government said details of the funeral arrangements would be announced by the Gumel Emirate Council and relevant authorities.
