The Chairman of the National Population Commission, Dr Aminu Yusuf Wushishi, has died at the age of 59.
Wushishi reportedly died on Friday, August 28, 2026, with news of his death reaching Minna, the Niger State capital, around the time of the Juma’at prayer.
His death has thrown his associates and political circles into mourning.
Wushishi, a former Secretary of the Niger State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party, was reportedly taken ill shortly before his death.
Confirming the development, his Special Adviser on Media, Stanley Nwosu, told Vanguard that the NPC chairman had died.
“Yes, it is true. The NPC chairman died after a brief illness,” Nwosu said.
The Digital Rector of Niger State Polytechnic, Zungeru, Amb. Ibrahim Umar Kontagora, also mourned Wushishi, describing his death as a painful loss to the Kontagora Emirate, Niger State and Nigeria.
In a condolence message, Kontagora said, “It is with profound sadness and a heavy heart that the Digital Rector, Niger State Polytechnic, Zungeru, Amb Ibrahim Umar Kontagora PhD extends his deepest condolences to the entire good people of Kontagora Emirate over the painful loss of Alhaji Aminu Yusuf Talba Wushishi, Chairman of the National Population Commission (NPC).”
He added, “His passing is a great loss not only to his immediate family and loved ones, but also to the people of Kontagora Emirate, Niger State, and Nigeria at large.”
According to him, Wushishi was “a distinguished personality whose contributions and service to humanity will remain a lasting part of his legacy.”
Kontagora prayed for Allah’s forgiveness and mercy for the deceased and strength for his family, colleagues, friends and the people of Kontagora Emirate to bear the loss.
Wushishi officially assumed office as Chairman of the National Population Commission on December 2, 2025.
He had a strong academic background and held various public service positions before his appointment to lead the commission.
He succeeded Nasir Kwarra, who concluded his tenure as NPC chairman in December 2020.
Details surrounding Wushishi’s death and funeral arrangements were still being awaited as of the time of filing this report.