A multi-billionaire, Kano businessman and the leader of Tijjaniya Muslim Brotherhood, Khalifa Isyaku Rabiu, has died at the age of 90.
According to reports, Isiyaku passed away in a London hospital on Tuesday after a protracted illness.
A business associate who confirmed the news to reporters said he would be buried according to Islamic rites as soon as his body arrives Nigeria.
Isyaku founded a major family operated holding company with a history of investment in manufacturing, insurance, banking and real estate.
He had a large family with many children and grandchildren, including his first son Nafiu Rabiu; influential Nigerian businessmen Abdulsamad Rabiu, Chairman of BUA Group; Rabiu Rabiu, owner of IRS Airlines, Naziru Rabiu, Quraish I Rabiu, Makiu Rabiu, Abdullahi Rabiu, Muhammad Rabiu and Daha Rabiu among others.
He lived in the biggest single mansion in Kano. He was widely loved and respected and known for his generosity and Islamic spirituality.