By Abdullahi Alhassan, Kaduna
Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of former Deputy Inspector General of Police, DIG (Rtd) Abdullahi Shettima, who passed away in the early hours of Sunday at the age of 93.
Governor Zulum described the late senior police officer as an exceptional patriot, elder statesman and one of Borno State’s most distinguished sons, whose decades of dedicated service to Nigeria left an enduring legacy of integrity, professionalism and selfless leadership.
In a condolence message issued by his Special Adviser on Media, Dauda Iliya, the governor said the late Shettima belonged to a generation of public servants whose commitment and discipline helped shape the Nigeria Police Force into a respected institution.
He noted that as one of the last surviving pre-independence police officers from Borno State, the late DIG devoted more than three decades of his life to safeguarding the nation, earning widespread admiration for his courage, honour and unwavering sense of duty.
Governor Zulum also acknowledged the deceased’s contributions beyond policing, describing him as a respected mentor and an alumnus of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru, whose wealth of experience and wise counsel positively influenced many generations of leaders.
“The passing of DIG (Rtd) Abdullahi Shettima is a monumental loss, not only to his immediate family but to Borno State and Nigeria as a whole.
“He was a towering figure, a mentor, a guardian and a symbol of selfless service whose immense contributions to nation-building will remain unforgettable,” the governor said.
Governor Zulum prayed to Almighty Allah (SWT) to forgive the shortcomings of the deceased, admit him into Aljannatul Firdaus, and grant his family, friends and the people of Borno State the strength and fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.
The governor further noted that the late Shettima’s remarkable record of public service, patriotism and commitment to national development would continue to inspire future generations of Nigerians.
