by George Ozalla
The Nigerian Army, government officials, and the people of Bassa-Nge Kingdom paid their final respects to late Brigadier General Abu Ali (Rtd), a respected senior officer, former Military Administrator of Bauchi State, and the revered Etsu Bassa-Nge. The distinguished officer, whose life was marked by service, integrity, and dedication to national unity, was laid to rest today in Gboloko Bassa, Kogi State, in accordance with Islamic rites.
In a tribute, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, extended condolences to the family and lauded the late officer’s legacy of professionalism, describing him as a beacon of honour, a pillar of military ethics, and a leader whose selfless dedication will continue to inspire generations.
Represented by the State Security Adviser, Commander Jerry Omodara (Rtd), the Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Usman Ododo, described the late Etsu Bassa-Nge as a custodian of unity and development whose reign fostered progress and cohesion, adding that his loss is deeply felt across the state and nation.
The funeral oration, delivered by Brigadier General Kasim Umar Sidi on behalf of the Chief of Army Staff, traced the life and service of Brigadier General Abu Ali, born in 1945 in Gboloko. It highlighted his military career from his enlistment in 1963 to his retirement in 1999, including key appointments such as Military Administrator of Bauchi State, Commander of the 15 ECOWAS Monitoring Group Brigade, Director of Training at Headquarters Training and Doctrine Command, Deputy Chief of Intelligence at the Defence Intelligence Agency, and Commandant of the Armoured Corps Centre and School. His tenure as Etsu Bassa-Nge was noted for transformative leadership, community development, and youth empowerment.
The oration also celebrated his extensive professional military training in Nigeria, the United Kingdom, Pakistan, India, and the United States, noting his discipline, leadership, and dedication. The late officer is survived by a legacy of patriotism and service, including that of his son, the late Lieutenant Colonel Muhammad Abu Ali, a decorated hero in the fight against insurgency.
The burial ceremony drew senior officers from the Army Headquarters Abuja, Commander 12 Brigade Nigerian Army, Commander Nigerian Navy Ship Lugard, traditional rulers, spiritual leaders, government officials, and other dignitaries. Key moments included final prayers, the lowering of the national flag, and the presentation of national colours to his next of kin.
The Nigerian Army extended its deepest condolences to his family, the Bassa-Nge Kingdom, and the nation. Brigadier General Abu Ali (Rtd) will be remembered as a patriot, statesman, and traditional custodian whose legacy continues to illuminate the path of service.
