President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has extended his condolences to Niger Republic’s military leader, General Abdourahamane Tiani, following the death of his father, Elhadji Tiani Hassane, who passed away on Thursday, November 5, 2026, at the age of 110.
In a condolence message issued on Saturday, November 7, through his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu expressed sympathy to General Tiani, his family and the government and people of Niger Republic.
The Nigerian President described the death of a father as a profound and deeply personal loss, while acknowledging the remarkable length of the deceased’s life and the impact he made on those around him.
Tinubu encouraged the Nigerien leader to find comfort in his father’s legacy, noting that Elhadji Tiani Hassane lived to the remarkable age of 110 and left behind memories of faith, honour and integrity.
Nigeria Expresses Solidarity with Niger
In his message, President Tinubu reaffirmed Nigeria’s solidarity with Niger Republic during the period of mourning.
He stated that the government and people of Nigeria shared in the grief of their Nigerien counterparts, extending sympathy to the bereaved family and the wider population.
The President also prayed that Almighty Allah would grant the deceased Al-Jannah Firdaus and provide comfort to the family and everyone affected by his passing.
His message reflects the diplomatic tradition of extending condolences to neighbouring countries during significant moments of bereavement, particularly where longstanding cultural, religious and historical connections exist.
Elhadji Tiani Hassane Dies at 110
Elhadji Tiani Hassane died on November 5, 2026, at the age of 110. His death was announced in Niger, with funeral arrangements subsequently taking place in his hometown of Toukounouss.
His remarkable lifespan was a central part of President Tinubu’s condolence message, as the Nigerian leader urged General Tiani to take solace in the long and fulfilled life his father lived.
The President also highlighted the enduring values associated with the deceased, expressing hope that his family would draw strength from the legacy he left behind.
Nigeria and Niger Maintain Important Regional Ties
Nigeria and Niger Republic share longstanding relationships shaped by geographical proximity, trade, cultural connections, religious ties and cross-border communities.
Both countries also face shared security concerns, particularly threats from armed groups operating across parts of the Sahel and the wider Lake Chad region. Cooperation between their governments remains important for border security, regional stability and legitimate commercial activities.
However, relations between the two countries have experienced diplomatic challenges since the military takeover in Niger in July 2023, when General Tiani emerged as the country’s leader following the removal of former President Mohamed Bazoum.
Nigeria, under Tinubu’s leadership as chairman of the Economic Community of West African States at the time, played a prominent role in the regional response to the coup. ECOWAS imposed sanctions and demanded a return to constitutional order, while Niger later withdrew from the regional bloc alongside Mali and Burkina Faso to establish the Alliance of Sahel States.
Despite these political differences, diplomatic communication and regional engagement remain important to both countries because of their shared interests and security challenges.
Tinubu’s Message of Condolence
The President’s message was primarily an expression of sympathy to General Tiani and his family during a period of personal grief.
By extending Nigeria’s condolences, Tinubu acknowledged the loss and reaffirmed the country’s solidarity with the people and government of Niger.
He prayed for the peaceful repose of Elhadji Tiani Hassane, asking Almighty Allah to grant him Al-Jannah Firdaus and comfort those he left behind.
The message brings Nigeria’s official expression of sympathy to the Nigerien leader at a time of mourning, while underscoring the importance of maintaining respectful diplomatic relations between neighbouring West African countries.
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