NIA DIG Resigns, Cites Personal, Family Reasons

Ahmed Abubakar, the Director General of the National Intelligence Agency (NIA), announced his resignation yesterday, citing personal and family reasons. He submitted his resignation letter to President Bola Tinubu at the Aso Rock Villa in Abuja.

Abubakar, who has served as the NIA chief since 2018, expressed his gratitude to the President for extending his tenure by 15 months into the new administration. He mentioned that his visit to the President was partly to brief him on national security issues.

When asked about the reasons for his resignation, Abubakar mentioned personal family matters but emphasized that there was nothing serious. He assured that his commitment to national security would continue.

After briefing the President, Abubakar tendered his resignation, which was graciously accepted. He thanked President Tinubu for the opportunity to serve under his transformational leadership and expressed appreciation for the chance to serve two Presidents consecutively.

Regarding the President’s reaction to his resignation, Abubakar chose not to provide specific details, suggesting that such information would be more appropriately shared by the President or the National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, who accompanied him to the Villa.

Abubakar highlighted the support and confidence he received from the President during his tenure, as well as the opportunity to mentor younger officers. He concluded by reflecting on his seven years as DG of the NIA and the progress made in grooming capable officers for the agency.

Abubakar was originally appointed as DG of the NIA in 2018 by former President Muhammadu Buhari and had his term extended in December 2021. Before his appointment, he served as the Senior Special Assistant to the former President on International Affairs/International Relations.