The Chairman of the National Population Commission (NPC), Dr. Aminu Wushishi, died on Friday, August 28, 2026, following a brief illness, prompting tributes from political leaders across the country. Wushishi, a respected public servant, had led the commission through a period of significant reform, including the digitalisation of birth and death registration.
His death is a significant loss to the Nigerian public service. Wushishi was known for his commitment to data-driven governance and his efforts to modernise the NPC. The commission’s work is critical to national planning, and his leadership will be missed. Vice President Kashim Shettima led the tributes, describing Wushishi as a dedicated public servant who contributed immensely to national development.
The winners: none. The losers: the family of the deceased; the National Population Commission, which has lost its leader; and the Nigerian public, who have lost a dedicated public servant.
Bottom Line: Aminu Wushishi has passed away. The NPC has lost its leader. The question is who will succeed him and continue the reform agenda.