On November 26, 2011, tragedy struck the family of Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, when his eldest daughter, Yasmin El-Rufai, passed away at just 25 years old. Her untimely death left not only her family heartbroken but also touched many who knew of her academic brilliance and passion for literature.
The Circumstances Surrounding Yasmin El-Rufai’s Death
Yasmin was living in London at the time of her death. An inquest later revealed that she died after suffering an epileptic seizure at her Lisson Grove apartment.
According to medical reports, Yasmin had been diagnosed with epilepsy at the age of 14 and had experienced seizures whenever she missed her medication. She reportedly suffered her last known attack during the summer of 2011 before the fatal seizure later that year.
A Family’s Tribute to Their Beloved Daughter
On the 10th anniversary of Yasmin’s passing, Hadiza Isma El-Rufai, wife of Governor El-Rufai, took to Instagram to share a heartfelt tribute. Posting a beautiful photo of her daughter, she wrote simply:
“Exactly ten years today. Still missing you.”
Her message reflected the enduring pain of losing a child, even after a decade.
Yasmin El-Rufai’s Education and Achievements
Despite her health challenges, Yasmin El-Rufai pursued her education with remarkable dedication.
- Bachelor’s Degree – She earned an Economics degree from the University of Bath in the UK.
- Master’s Degree – She furthered her studies at the London School of Economics (LSE).
- Law Degree – Yasmin also held a Law degree from the University of London, showcasing her commitment to academic excellence.
Her intellectual pursuits were a testament to her resilience and drive, making her passing an even greater loss.
Honoring Yasmin’s Legacy: The Yasmin El-Rufai Foundation (YELF)
In 2013, two years after her death, Hadiza El-Rufai established the Yasmin El-Rufai Foundation (YELF) in memory of her daughter.
The foundation reflects Yasmin’s passion for literature, creativity, and knowledge. YELF has since become a platform for nurturing young Nigerian writers, artists, and creators—ensuring that Yasmin’s love for learning continues to inspire others.
Final Thoughts
The story of Yasmin El-Rufai’s death is one of heartbreak, but her life remains a symbol of brilliance and purpose. Through the Yasmin El-Rufai Foundation, her name continues to touch lives, fostering creativity and education for future generations.
💙 Her legacy reminds us that even in loss, there can be impact, meaning, and a light that keeps shining.
