The Federal Government of Nigeria has extended deep condolences to Qatar following the death of His Highness Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, the Father Amir and former Emir of the State of Qatar, who died on Sunday, July 12, 2026.
Sheikh Hamad ruled Qatar from 1995 to 2013 and is widely credited with driving the country’s rapid transformation and modernization. In a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and signed by spokesperson Kimiebi Ebienfa, Nigeria hailed him as a visionary statesman whose influence reached far beyond Qatar’s borders, crediting his leadership with shaping the modern Gulf nation and elevating its global standing.
The ministry said his wisdom and dedication to international cooperation would be fondly remembered by Qatar, the Gulf region, and Nigeria’s international partners alike.
On behalf of the Federal Government, Minister of Foreign Affairs Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu conveyed heartfelt condolences to Qatar’s ruling Emir, His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Al Thani family, and the people of Qatar.
The ministry affirmed Nigeria’s solidarity with Qatar during the mourning period and offered prayers for the late Father Amir’s peaceful repose, asking that his family and Qatar’s leadership be granted strength and comfort in their loss.
