The family of the late Hajia Habiba Yakubu Kuri-teng, affectionately known as *Nnaa Biba*, has publicly expressed profound appreciation to President John Dramani Mahama, First Lady Lordina Mahama, government officials, traditional authorities, religious leaders, and hundreds of sympathisers for the overwhelming support and solidarity shown following her passing.
The thanksgiving message, issued on behalf of the grandchildren and the extended family, described the outpouring of compassion from across the country as a source of immense comfort during one of the family’s most difficult moments.
Hajia Habiba passed away on July 28, 2026, after a life remembered for its unwavering faith, generosity, humility, and devotion to family and community. Her final Islamic funeral rites (Adua), held a day later at Jejeidayiri in the Wa Municipality of the Upper West Region, attracted a large gathering of mourners, including government representatives, chiefs, Islamic clerics, opinion leaders, relatives, and friends who assembled to pay their last respects.
According to the family, the late Hajia Habiba shared an exceptional and longstanding relationship with President Mahama and First Lady Lordina Mahama, who regarded her as an adopted mother. That close bond, they noted, was reflected in the significant role played by the First Family during the funeral.
Representing the President and the First Lady at the funeral was a high-powered delegation led by the Chief of Staff, Dr. Julius Debrah. The delegation delivered the personal condolences of the President and the First Lady, paid tribute to the late Hajia Habiba’s remarkable life, and presented a donation from the First Family to assist with the funeral arrangements.
Speaking on behalf of the grandchildren, Chief Hissan Siita Sofo (Malti Naa I), President of the AfCFTA Young Entrepreneurs Federation (AfYEF), together with Mr. Hafiz Halilu, Chief Executive Officer of Astee Company Ltd, said the family would forever remain grateful for the kindness extended by the First Family before and after their grandmother’s passing.
He stated that President Mahama and the First Lady consistently demonstrated genuine affection and concern for Hajia Habiba throughout her lifetime, adding that their continued support during her illness and the honour accorded her funeral reflected a relationship built on mutual respect, trust, and family values.
Chief Hissan Siita Sofo described the decision by the President to dispatch the Chief of Staff and a distinguished delegation to the funeral as a deeply touching gesture that brought comfort and encouragement to the bereaved family.
He also extended appreciation to government officials, Members of Parliament, traditional rulers, Islamic scholars, community leaders, friends, neighbours, and the many mourners who travelled from different parts of Ghana to stand with the family during the funeral.
According to him, the overwhelming show of solidarity demonstrated that compassion remains one of the country’s greatest strengths, especially in moments of grief.
Reflecting on the experience, Chief Hissan Siita Sofo said leadership is ultimately measured by humanity and the willingness to support others during their most challenging times.
“As President of the AfCFTA Young Entrepreneurs Federation, I have had the opportunity to engage with leaders across the continent. However, moments such as these remind us that the true essence of leadership lies in compassion, humility, empathy, and standing beside people when they need encouragement the most,” he said.
He described his grandmother as a woman whose enduring legacy was built on faith, integrity, generosity, wisdom, and unconditional love for others, adding that her values would continue to inspire generations of her descendants.
The family noted that Hajia Habiba was blessed to witness the growth of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, describing her long life as a gift from Almighty Allah and a source of gratitude for the entire family.
While mourning her passing, they said they have chosen to celebrate a life that touched countless people through kindness, prayer, guidance, and selfless service.
The family concluded by offering prayers for Allah’s mercy upon the departed, asking that her shortcomings be forgiven, that she be granted the highest place in Jannatul Firdaus, and that abundant blessings be bestowed upon everyone who supported the family through their prayers, donations, visits, and words of encouragement.
They reaffirmed their appreciation to President John Dramani Mahama, First Lady Lordina Mahama, the Government of Ghana, traditional and religious leaders, and all Ghanaians whose acts of kindness transformed a period of sorrow into one marked by unity, compassion, and shared humanity.
“Indeed, to Allah we belong, and to Him we shall all return.” Ameen!!!!