The Emir of Zuru, His Royal Highness Major General Mohammed Sani Sami Gomo II (Retired), was on Friday, 22 August 2025, laid to rest with full military honours at his residence in Zuru, Kebbi State. His passing on 17 August 2025 was received with deep grief across Nigeria, marking the end of an era for the Nigerian Army, Kebbi State, and the Zuru Emirate, where he was revered as a gallant soldier, visionary leader, and custodian of tradition.
According to a statement by Lieutenant Colonel Ibrahim Shittu, Acting Deputy Director Army Public Relations, 8 Division, the late Emir, born on 24 October 1943 in Zuru, began his education in the town before proceeding to Government College Bida, where he obtained his West African School Certificate. He commenced his military career at the Nigerian Military Training College, Kaduna, before completing further training at Mons Officers Cadet School, Aldershot, United Kingdom. He was commissioned into the Nigerian Army Infantry Corps as a Second Lieutenant on 25 July 1963.
Through dedication, loyalty, and service to the nation, he rose steadily through the ranks to attain the rank of Major General on 1 May 1986, before voluntarily retiring from active duty on 3 September 1990.
Representing the Chief of Army Staff, the Theatre Commander Joint Task Force Northwest Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Major General Oluyinka Soyele, described the late Emir as a resourceful and professional officer who held several key command, staff, and instructional appointments. These included Military Governor of Bauchi State, Provost Marshal (Army), Commandant of the Nigerian Army School of Infantry, General Officer Commanding (GOC) 82 Division and GOC 1 Mechanized Division, as well as Principal Joint Staff Officer at Joint Headquarters.
As Military Governor of Bauchi State, he distinguished himself as a people-oriented leader, initiating developmental projects such as the upgrade of medical facilities, the “Back to Land” agricultural programme, and the successful hosting of the World Handball Championship, which brought international recognition to the state. His administration was also marked by religious tolerance, civil service reforms, and efforts to curb corruption.
After a meritorious military career, he ascended the throne of Zuru as Emir, where he drew from his wealth of experience to foster peace, unity, and development. He championed education, agriculture, youth empowerment, and inclusiveness, endearing himself to all within the Emirate and beyond.
The funeral in Zuru attracted Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima GCON, the Governor of Kebbi State, the Sultan of Sokoto, the Emir of Kano, former service chiefs, senior military officers, political leaders, associates, and members of the Zuru Emirate, who gathered to pay their final respects. The solemn military rites included the firing of volleys, presentation of the National Flag to his next of kin, and the sounding of the Last Post and Reveille, symbolising the nation’s final salute to a patriotic leader.
Late Major General Mohammed Sani Sami (Gomo II) will be remembered as a soldier, statesman, and royal father whose legacy of service, discipline, and vision continues to inspire future generations.
May his soul rest in perfect peace.
MILITAINMENTNEWS
