Get Guardian on GoogleThe President of MAAUN Group of Universities, Professor Adamu Abubakar Gwarzo, has expressed condolences to Niger Republic’s leader, General Abdourahamane Tiani, following the death of his father, Tiani Hassane.
Hassane reportedly died on Thursday, November 5, 2026, in Niamey, the Nigerien capital, at the age of 110.
In a condolence message, Gwarzo described the death as a painful loss to the Tiani family and the people of Niger, noting that the passing of an elder who lived for more than a century represented the loss of valuable personal and historical experiences.
The university administrator said the deceased’s longevity and role in raising his family deserved recognition, particularly for the values he was believed to have passed on to succeeding generations.
He maintained that the influence of parents on their children remained an important aspect of family life and community development.
According to Gwarzo, the late Hassane lived through significant periods in the history of Niger and the wider African continent.
He said individuals who reach such an advanced age often serve as important links between generations, preserving family histories, cultural traditions and experiences that might otherwise be lost.
The academic described the deceased as a father whose contribution to his family extended beyond providing care and guidance during his lifetime.
He attributed values such as discipline, integrity and responsibility to the upbringing Hassane provided for his children.
Gwarzo also referred to the role of President Tiani in Niger’s national affairs, saying the late patriarch’s influence could be seen in the responsibilities undertaken by members of his family.
“Although Elhadji Tiani Hassane lived a fulfilled life at the remarkable age of 110, his passing remains a painful loss to his family and the people of Niger Republic,” Gwarzo said.
“A father’s greatest legacy is not only the number of years he lives but also the values he instils in his children and the positive impact those values have on society.”
The MAAUN president said the deceased’s memory would remain important to those who knew him and to members of his extended family.
Gwarzo extended his condolences on behalf of the MAAUN Group of Universities and his family to President Tiani, the bereaved family and the government and people of Niger.
He said the death of a parent remained a difficult experience regardless of the deceased’s age or the length of time spent with family members.
The academic noted that while Hassane’s reported age of 110 represented an exceptionally long life, his children, relatives, and associates would still feel the loss deeply.
He expressed the hope that the family would find comfort in the deceased’s memory and the years they shared with him.
Gwarzo further emphasised the importance of preserving the values and experiences of older generations, describing them as part of the social foundation on which families and communities develop.
He said the passing of a centenarian should also encourage younger generations to appreciate the contributions of elderly people to family life and society.
The university administrator prayed for the repose of Hassane’s soul and asked Almighty Allah to grant the deceased forgiveness and mercy.
He also prayed for President Tiani and other members of the family to receive the strength and patience needed to cope with their bereavement.
Gwarzo asked Allah to accept the deceased’s good deeds, forgive his shortcomings and grant him Aljannatul Firdaus.
He expressed similar prayers for members of the extended family and others affected by the death.
The condolence message comes as President Tiani continues to lead Niger, where he assumed power following the military takeover of July 2023.
Niger and Nigeria share longstanding historical, cultural, religious and economic ties, particularly among communities along their common border.
These connections have sustained relationships between individuals and institutions in both countries, including educational and social organisations.
Gwarzo, whose university group has interests in higher education, said his message was intended to convey sympathy and solidarity with the bereaved family during its period of mourning.
He concluded by praying that the family would find comfort in the deceased’s long life and the memories he left behind.
