By Henry Umoru
ABUJA — The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), the apex socio-political body of the South-South geopolitical zone, has mourned the death of former Minister and former National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, Alhaji Bamanga Tukur.
PANDEF said Tukur, who died on Saturday at the age of 90, made significant contributions to the development of Nigeria, particularly during his tenure at the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA).
In a condolence statement signed by its National Chairman, Ambassador Godknows Igali, the organisation recalled that during Tukur’s tenure at the NPA, ports in the South-South, including Port Harcourt, Calabar, Warri and Onne, operated on what it described as an equal footing with the Apapa and Tin Can Island ports.
Igali said the role Tukur played in ensuring the functionality of the Warri Port was particularly significant to the South-South region.
“For this, the South-South geopolitical owes him a world of gratitude,” Igali said.
According to PANDEF, Tukur was an accomplished public servant, diplomat, businessman and politician whose contributions to national development transcended ethnic and regional considerations.
The statement said: “Today, 12th September, 2026, I joined many Nigerians to the Abuja residence of one of Nigeria’s most outstanding citizens and statesmen, His Excellency Alhaji Bamanga Tukur, CON, to pay my last respects.
“He passed on today at the age of 90 years, just three days short of his 91st birthday, which should have come up on 15th September, 2026.”
Igali said Tukur’s contributions to state-building and national integration would be remembered, particularly his tenure as national chairman of the then ruling PDP.
He also recalled Tukur’s contributions to African economic development, including his reported role in processes that led to the establishment of the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank), as well as the consolidation of the African Business Roundtable and other continental trade and investment initiatives.
Beyond his official roles, Igali said Tukur mentored people across Nigeria and other parts of Africa.
“His departure leaves a big void. But we thank God Almighty for His sovereign will and for the gift of good old age of service. May Baba’s soul rest in peace,” he said.
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