The Emir of Zazzau, Malam Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli, has approved the appointment of former Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) Chief Financial Officer, Mallam Isiaka Abdulrazaq, as the Tafidan Yamman Zazzau.
The appointment recognises Abdulrazaq’s contributions to public service, philanthropy, community development and peace-building, as well as his longstanding relationship with the Zazzau Emirate.
The confirmation was contained in a letter dated October 7, 2026, corresponding to 27 Rabi’ul Thani, 1448 AH, issued by the Office of the Council Secretary of the Zazzau Emirate Council.
The letter was signed by the Magatakardan Zazzau, Malam Yusuf Abubakar Hayat.
According to the council, the traditional title reflects Abdulrazaq’s dedication to promoting peace, supporting community initiatives and contributing to the development of the emirate, Kaduna State and Nigeria.
Abdulrazaq brings to the traditional institution decades of experience in public service and financial management, having served in key positions within Nigeria’s power and petroleum sectors.
He began his public-sector career at the National Electric Power Authority (NEPA), which later became the Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN), where he rose to the position of Executive Director, Finance and Accounts.
He subsequently joined the NNPC, where he served as Chief Financial Officer before retiring in 2019.
Born in Zaria, Kaduna State, Abdulrazaq attended Barewa College, one of Northern Nigeria’s prominent secondary schools. His personal and family ties to the ancient city have remained strong over the years.
Beyond his professional career, he has been involved in philanthropic activities and community engagement, with a focus on improving people’s welfare and supporting local development.
His appointment also continues a family legacy within the Zazzau traditional institution.
He is the son of the late Alhaji A.G.F. Abdulrazaq, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) and former Tafidan Zazzau, who received the traditional title in 1962.
The Abdulrazaq family has maintained longstanding ties with Zaria since the mid-1950s, establishing enduring relationships with the emirate and its people.
The Emir and members of the Zazzau Emirate Council congratulated the new title holder, expressing confidence in his ability to uphold the dignity of the office and perform its responsibilities with integrity and commitment.
They also prayed for divine guidance, wisdom and strength for Abdulrazaq as he assumes his new traditional responsibilities.
The Zazzau Emirate Council, based at the Emir’s Palace in Zaria, continues to uphold the emirate’s cultural heritage and traditional institutions while promoting peace, unity and sustainable community development.
