General Sani Abacha
Seized power from Shonekan and ruled until his death in 1998.
About Nigeria's Heads of State
The President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria is both head of state and head of government, elected for a renewable four-year term. The President commands the armed forces, appoints ministers with Senate confirmation, signs bills into law and represents Nigeria in international affairs. Under the 1999 Constitution, executive power is vested in the President, exercised in accordance with the Constitution and laws made by the National Assembly.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did General Sani Abacha serve as Head of State of Nigeria?
General Sani Abacha served as Nigeria's head of government from November 1993 to June 1998.
When was General Sani Abacha born?
General Sani Abacha was born on 20 September 1943, which would make he about 82 years old today.
What state is General Sani Abacha from?
General Sani Abacha hails from Kano State in Nigeria's North-West geopolitical zone.
What religion did General Sani Abacha practise?
General Sani Abacha is widely identified as a Muslim. Religion has often factored into Nigeria's leadership representation, though it is not a constitutional requirement for office.
What does the President of Nigeria do?
The President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria is both head of state and head of government. The President commands the armed forces, appoints ministers with Senate confirmation, signs bills into law, sets national policy and represents Nigeria internationally. Under the 1999 Constitution, the President serves a renewable four-year term.
Other Nigerian Presidents & Heads of State
- Alhaji Shehu Shagari
- Alhaji Umaru Musa Yar’Adua
- Bola Ahmed Tinubu
- Chief Ernest Shonekan
- Chief Olusegun Obasanjo
- Dr. Goodluck Jonathan
- General Abdulsalami Abubakar
- General Ibrahim Babangida
- General Murtala Muhammed
- General Olusegun Obasanjo
- General Yakubu Gowon
- Major General Johnson Aguiyi-Ironsi
- Major General Muhammadu Buhari
- Muhammadu Buhari
- Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa
Government of Kano State
- Governor
- Abba Kabir Yusuf
- House of Reps
- 24 members — listed on the Kano State page