Former PDP Chairman, Bamanga Tukur, Dies At 90

Former National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, Alhaji Bamanga Mahmud Tukur, has died at the age of 90.

Tukur’s death was announced on Saturday, September 12, 2026, in Abuja. He was born on September 15, 1935, and died three days before his 91st birthday.

The elder statesman was a businessman, politician and administrator who held several influential positions in Nigeria and across Africa during a career spanning more than six decades.

Tukur served as General Manager and Chief Executive of the Nigerian Ports Authority from 1975 to 1982, where he played a major role in the administration of Nigeria’s port operations.

He later entered politics and became the governor of the old Gongola State during the Second Republic. His tenure was cut short by the military coup of December 1983.

Following his time in government, Tukur returned to business and founded BHI Holdings, also known as the Daddo Group of Companies.

He later served as Minister of Industries under the military administration of General Sani Abacha from 1993 to 1995.

Beyond Nigeria, Tukur played prominent roles in African business and economic organisations. He served as Executive President of the African Business Roundtable and became chairman of the NEPAD Business Group.

He was also involved in the international maritime sector and served as the first African Vice President of the International Association of Ports and Harbours.

Tukur returned to frontline Nigerian politics in 2012 when he was elected National Chairman of the PDP. He led the party during a period of significant internal disagreements before resigning from the position in January 2014.

He was a holder of the traditional title of Tafidan Adamawa and received national honours including Commander of the Order of the Mono and Commander of the Order of the Niger.

Tukur obtained a Master of Science degree from the University of Pittsburgh in the United States and was also awarded an honorary Doctor of Laws degree by Benue State University.

His death has brought to an end the life of a prominent figure whose career spanned public administration, politics, business and continental economic affairs.