Tag: BUHARI

The Jama’atu Nasril Islam (JNI) has expressed deep sorrow over the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari, describing him as a leader known for his simplicity, restraint and calm approach to governance.

In a condolence message on Sunday signed by its Secretary-General, Prof. Khalid Abubakar Aliyu, the JNI said it received news of Buhari’s passing in London “with deep sorrow,” while offering prayers for Allah’s mercy and forgiveness to the late statesman.

JNI, under the leadership of its President-General, His Eminence, the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, noted that Buhari remained devoted throughout his life to ideals he believed would advance national growth.

Read Also: BREAKING: Tinubu announces Buhari’s death, sends Shettima to escort body to Nigeria

“His tenure, like those of all other leaders, came with challenges and efforts aimed at national development,” the Islamic body said. It acknowledged Buhari’s long years in public service, urging Nigerians to remember him for his sacrifices and strive to live lives pleasing to Allah.

JNI prayed that Allah (SWT) accepts the good for which Buhari strove, overlooks his shortcomings, and grants him mercy and forgiveness.

The organisation extended heartfelt condolences to Buhari’s family, the government and people of Nigeria, and particularly the people of Katsina State, praying Allah to grant them patience and comfort at this difficult time.

“Let us all be reminded that leadership and life are trusts that will one day come to an end, for which we will account before Allah, the Most High. May we live in ways that earn Allah’s pleasure. Amin,” JNI added.

Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari, describing the news as saddening and a great national loss.

In a condolence message issued on Sunday by his Chief Press Secretary, Ebenezer Adeniyan, Aiyedatiwa paid tribute to Buhari as a true patriot who lived a fulfilled and impactful life.

“I received the news of the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari this afternoon. It’s one death that grieves, but our faith in God Almighty, who gives and takes, remains unshakable,” the governor stated.

He extended heartfelt condolences to Buhari’s immediate family, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Katsina State Governor Dikko Umar Radda, the people of Katsina State, the All Progressives Congress (APC), and Nigerians at large.

Aiyedatiwa described Buhari as an illustrious son, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and husband, who was audacious, prudent, contented, strong-willed, and compassionate.

“President Buhari was a man who valued his integrity and couldn’t hide his feelings. He was jocular and could make anyone smile even in difficult situations,” he said, recalling a recent encounter with the late leader during a visit with other progressive governors to Sokoto three months ago.

Read Also: BREAKING: Tinubu announces Buhari’s death, sends Shettima to escort body to Nigeria

Governor Aiyedatiwa prayed for the peaceful repose of the late president’s soul and asked Allah to grant him the best of paradise in the hereafter.

“Farewell, great General, patriot and leader,” he concluded.

Also, the erstwhile Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) and now the traditional ruler of Ilu-Abo in Akure North Local Government Area of the state, Olu Falae, described the passing of Buhari as the will of Allah.

Oba Falae said, “We pray that God should accept him [Buhari) and forgive him all that he did wrong when he was alive, so he could inherit internal peace.

“All of us are going to die one day, and we will go, we pray that God will accept all of us and forgive us all the sins and wrong deeds we committed when in heart. We are all imperfect and all sinners.

“I condoled his family and supporters, and being a Muslim, I expect that they would accept that his passing is the will of Allah.”

“Buhari took over power and promised to eradicate corruption in Nigeria when the menace had become institutionalised. He focused mainly on official corruption, and he ensured it was fought to a standstill even though we’re very sceptical about the approach,” he said.

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, has described former President Muhammadu Buhari as an exemplary leader whose life was defined by “discipline, integrity, and unwavering commitment” to the unity and progress of the country.

In his condolence message, the CDS stated that the late President’s contributions to national development, spanning both military and democratic leadership, have left a lasting legacy in the nation’s history.

Gen. Musa said, “The late President has written his name in gold as an incorruptible leader and vanguard of prudence.

Read Also: BREAKING: Tinubu announces Buhari’s death, sends Shettima to escort body to Nigeria

“President Buhari was a symbol of dedication to national service. He fought tirelessly for the unity and indivisibility of our great country. His leadership, courage, and principles will continue to inspire generations of citizens.”

The CDS highlighted the late President’s embodiment of strict discipline and adherence to the rule of law as defining characteristics of his leadership, both in military and democratic governance.

“President Buhari’s zero-tolerance policy for indiscipline remains a model worth emulating,” he said.

While praying for the peaceful repose of the former President’s soul, the CDS extended condolences to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Buhari’s family, and the nation on the loss of a “revered elder statesman, patriot, and gallant senior officer.”

…says former president’s legacy will endure as a guiding light for future generations

Vice President Kashim Shettima has expressed deep sorrow over the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari, describing it as one of the greatest losses Nigeria has suffered in recent times.

In a heartfelt condolence message issued on Sunday, the Vice President said the passing of the 82-year-old former leader, who died at a clinic in the United Kingdom, marked a dark chapter in Nigeria’s history.

According to a statement issued by the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications, Office of the Vice President, Stanley Nkwocha, he described Buhari as a towering figure in Nigeria’s political evolution, whose life and legacy would continue to shape the conscience of public service in the country.

“It is a black Sunday in Nigeria,” Vice President Shettima mourned. “My heart is overwhelmed by grief, as the nation mourns one of its greatest leaders of all time, His Excellency, former President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR. This loss is too cruel than terms could give out—coming at a time I was anticipating his quick recovery after visiting him at the hospital in the United Kingdom”, Shettima said.

The Vice President, who had only recently visited the late President in London on the instruction of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, lamented that Buhari’s death came just as hopes for his recovery were high.

He described the former President as an “archetypal public servant,” whose long and distinguished career—spanning service as a military officer, Head of State, and later, two-term civilian President, left an indelible mark on the nation.

“Great leaders like the late Buhari are very rare to come by in a lifetime,” Shettima said. “His legacies as a true democrat, a man of discipline and integrity, and a symbol of national unity, will continue to serve as a leading light for future leaders to follow.”

The Vice President recalled Buhari’s unwavering commitment to the Nigerian project, noting that his life was defined by sacrifice, courage, and a deep belief in the unity and progress of the nation.

Read Also: BREAKING: Tinubu announces Buhari’s death, sends Shettima to escort body to Nigeria

“The late Pa Buhari dedicated his active years to serving Nigeria and the people. He was a true democrat in all senses of the word, and his loyalty to his country, uncompromising stance on unity, and vision for a greater Nigeria contributed in no small measure to keeping the nation as one. Indeed, he lived a life that transcended the ordinary—a life of selflessness, a life defined by bravery in the face of adversity and integrity in public service”, Shettima said.

Vice President Shettima extended his condolences to the immediate family of the former President, the people of Katsina State, and all Nigerians.

He urged the nation to draw comfort from the fact that Buhari’s legacy is firmly etched into the bedrock of Nigeria’s political and institutional framework.

“The former Nigerian leader will continue to live amongst us through his legacies already engraved in the very fabric of the Nigerian State,” Shettima concluded.

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, has expressed profound sorrow over the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away on Sunday, July 13, 2025, at the age of 82 in the United Kingdom.

In a statement released on behalf of the Federal Executive Council (FEC), the SGF described the late leader as “a true patriot, statesman, and disciplined leader” whose contributions to Nigeria’s political and democratic evolution were marked by honour, integrity, and an unyielding commitment to national service.

“President Buhari’s legacy—spanning his leadership as military Head of State from 1984 to 1985, and later as a two-term democratically elected President between 2015 and 2023—was defined by a resolute fight against corruption, a commitment to national unity, and unwavering dedication to public service,” Akume said.

Read Also: BREAKING: Tinubu announces Buhari’s death, sends Shettima to escort body to Nigeria

He noted that the late President governed with calm strength and moral clarity, offering millions of Nigerians and generations to come a lasting example of public accountability and principled leadership.

“His vision for a better, safer, and more transparent Nigeria inspired millions across the country and beyond, as well as posterity,” the SGF added.

In honour of the late leader’s service and sacrifice, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed that the national flag be flown at half-mast for seven days beginning Sunday, July 13.

The President has also convened an emergency Federal Executive Council meeting scheduled for Tuesday, July 15, to formally pay tribute and reflect on the life and contributions of the former President.

Senator Akume extended the sympathies of the entire Federal Executive Council to the late President’s widow, Mrs. Aisha Buhari, the Buhari family, and the government and people of Katsina State.

“We pray for Al-jannah Firdaus for the soul of the departed patriot,” he said.

The Minister of Regional Development, Abubakar Momoh, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Nigeria’s former President, Muhammadu Buhari, describing him as a “pillar of integrity” and a “father figure to our democracy.”

In a solemn tribute issued on Sunday evening, Momoh mourned the loss of the former Head of State, who died in London after a protracted illness.

He hailed the late President’s legacy of discipline, integrity, and national commitment, recalling his rare distinction of having served Nigeria both as a military leader and as a two-term democratically elected president.

“Inna lilahi wa inna ilaihi rajiun. It is with deep sorrow and a heavy heart that I received the news of the passing of His Excellency, former President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR. Nigeria has lost not just a former Head of State, but a symbol of discipline, integrity, and unwavering national service”, Momoh said in his statement.

He lauded Buhari’s famed War Against Indiscipline (WAI) initiative as a military ruler in the 1980s, noting that it underscored his lifelong advocacy for order and moral rectitude.

Read Also: BREAKING: Tinubu announces Buhari’s death, sends Shettima to escort body to Nigeria

“His leadership—first as a military ruler who for the first time introduced War Against Indiscipline, and later as a democratically elected President—was defined by a strong will, incorruptibility, and a sincere passion for the growth, development, and unity of this country,” he said.

While acknowledging Buhari’s quiet demeanour, Momoh emphasised that “he was not a man of many words, but every word he spoke carried the weight of sincerity and patriotism.”

The minister also extended heartfelt condolences to the late President’s widow, Hajiya Aisha Buhari, and other members of the bereaved family.

“To the immediate family, especially our dear former First Lady, Hajiya Aisha Buhari, I extend my deepest condolences. I pray Allah (SWT) grants them comfort and strength in this trying time,” he said.

Momoh concluded his statement with a prayer: “May Allah forgive his shortcomings and grant him Aljannah Firdaus – amen.”

The Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation has joined millions of Nigerians in mourning the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari, describing him as a towering figure who exemplified resilience, patriotism, and an unwavering commitment to national unity.

In a condolence statement issued Monday in Kaduna by its Director-General, Abubakar Gambo Umar, the Foundation said it received the news of Buhari’s passing on July 13 with deep sorrow and a heavy heart.

The Foundation highlighted Buhari’s journey from modest beginnings to becoming Nigeria’s Military Head of State between 1983 and 1985, and later making history in 2015 as the first opposition candidate to defeat an incumbent president through democratic elections.

“His re-election in 2019 reaffirmed the confidence Nigerians had in his vision for a stronger, more secure, and self-reliant nation,” the statement read.

The Foundation commended Buhari’s impact on national development, citing reforms in security, infrastructure, and agriculture aimed at repositioning Nigeria for long-term growth. It also lauded his strong anti-corruption stance and emphasis on discipline, values it said mirrored those of Sir Ahmadu Bello, the late Premier of Northern Nigeria, in whose honour the Foundation was established.

Read Also: BREAKING: Tinubu announces Buhari’s death, sends Shettima to escort body to Nigeria

While mourning the loss, the Foundation urged Nigerians to uphold the ideals Buhari stood for, noting that his legacy will remain a guiding light for future leaders and generations to come.

“Late President Buhari’s life was a testament to the values of integrity, discipline, and service, similarly championed by our Foundation,” the statement read. “He believed passionately in the unity and progress of Nigeria, and his decision to contest the presidency multiple times, undeterred by setbacks, reflected an unshakeable commitment to the country’s advancement.”

As Nigeria grapples with present challenges, the Foundation called on citizens and leaders alike to embrace introspection and renew their dedication to the ideals Buhari espoused.

“His life reminds us that leadership demands sacrifice, courage, and a relentless pursuit of justice,” the statement added. “We must honour his memory by recommitting to good governance, equity and national cohesion.”

The Foundation extended heartfelt condolences to the Buhari family, the government and people of Katsina State, and all Nigerians mourning the loss of the former leader.

“May his soul rest in peace in the exalted Aljannah Firdaus, and may his legacy inspire us to forge a stronger, more united nation,” the statement read.

Former Senate President Ahmad Lawan has described the late former President Muhammadu Buhari as an exemplary leader.

Lawan, in a statement in reaction to Buhari’s demise, said, “With profound sorrow and a heavy heart, I mourn the passing of our esteemed former President, His Excellency Muhammadu Buhari.

“His departure marks the end of an era for our nation, one defined by steadfast leadership and unyielding commitment to the progress of Nigeria.

“As a fellow servant of the people, I am deeply shaken by this loss, for I had the privilege of working closely with him during our time in the 9th National Assembly.

“Our collaboration was marked by mutual respect and a shared vision for a stronger, more unified Nigeria, where every decision was guided by the welfare of our citizens.

“President Buhari’s leadership was nothing short of exemplary, characterised by his resolute integrity, strategic foresight, and dedication to national security and economic stability.

“I witnessed firsthand his tireless efforts to steer our country through challenging times, always prioritising the greater good over personal gain.

“Our harmonious partnership in the Senate allowed me to appreciate his wisdom and decisiveness, as we worked hand in hand to advance key legislation that addressed the needs of our people.

“From combating insecurity to fostering infrastructure development, his guidance was a source of confidence and unity among us. It was an honour to stand by his side, learning from his experience and contributing to the shared goals that defined his administration.

Read Also: BREAKING: Tinubu announces Buhari’s death, sends Shettima to escort body to Nigeria

“In this moment of grief, I extend my deepest condolences to the Buhari family, who have lost a loving patriarch and a pillar of strength.

“To the Nigerian government under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, under whose watch his legacies will endure, I offer my solidarity and prayers for fortitude.

“The All Progressives Congress, which he led with such distinction, must now draw upon his example to continue the path of progress. Additionally, to the government and people of Katsina State, his home and the cradle of his remarkable journey, I share in your mourning and urge us all to honour his memory by upholding the values he championed.

“As we bid farewell to this great leader, let us remember that his life’s work has left an indelible mark on our nation. May his soul rest in eternal peace, and may we, as Nigerians, carry forward the spirit of service and unity that he embodied so profoundly.”

The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari, describing him as a pan-African icon, a disciplined soldier, and a nationalist whose legacy will endure in Nigeria’s history.

In a condolence message issued through his media director, Otunba Moses Olafare, the Ooni, who also serves as Chairman of the Southern Nigeria Traditional Rulers Council and Co-Chairman of the National Council of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria (NCTRN), said the news of Buhari’s passing came as a rude shock.

He described Buhari’s death as the end of a significant chapter in Nigeria’s national story, but noted that “kings and leaders of great legacy are not mourned, they are celebrated, for their footprints in the sands of time remain long after they have transitioned to the ancestral realm.”

Read Also: BREAKING: Tinubu announces Buhari’s death, sends Shettima to escort body to Nigeria

The monarch praised Buhari as a resilient leader and an unrepentant patriot, stating that “from the battlefield as a gallant military officer to the presidency as Commander-in-Chief, President Buhari gave his all to the cause of the Nigerian nation.”

Recalling a recent meeting with the late President, Oba Ogunwusi said, “He was in very high spirits, strong and jovial as always, and received me with maximum courtesy. It is truly shocking that he is no more. That alone is a profound reminder of life’s fleeting nature.”

Describing him as “a true son of the North and a pan-African per excellence,” the Ooni said Buhari’s legacy of integrity, frugality, and devotion to a united Nigeria is permanently etched in the nation’s consciousness. “History will be kind to his memory,” he added.

He also called on Nigerians across ethnic, religious, and political lines to emulate Buhari’s unwavering belief in unity and uphold the values of peace, equity, and progress.

On behalf of the Yoruba people, the House of Oduduwa, and traditional institutions across the country, the Ooni extended heartfelt condolences to the Buhari family, the Federal Government, the Katsina State Government, the Daura Emirate, and Nigerians around the world.

…he was a man of method, integrity — Ngelale

Former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo has expressed deep sorrow over the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari, describing him as a true patriot whose legacy will remain a beacon of integrity and devotion to public service.

Also mourning the former President, former Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Ajuri Ngelale, described him as “a man of method and integrity.”

In a heartfelt statement released on Saturday, Osinbajo said he and his wife, Dolapo, received the news of the late president’s passing with profound sadness.

“Dolapo and I received, with profound sadness, the news of the passing of His Excellency, former President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, this afternoon,” he wrote.

The former Vice President disclosed that they had spoken with the late President’s widow, Aisha Buhari, and their son, Yusuf Buhari, to offer their condolences and express solidarity with the bereaved family.

“In the moments that followed, we spoke with Her Excellency Aisha Buhari and their son Yusuf Buhari to express our heartfelt condolences and to share in the deep grief of their beloved family, one with whom we had the honour of serving our nation for eight memorable years,” Osinbajo stated.

He eulogised Buhari as a man whose life exemplified honesty, discipline, and an unwavering sense of duty.

Read Also: BREAKING: Tinubu announces Buhari’s death, sends Shettima to escort body to Nigeria

“Nigeria has lost a true patriot—a man whose life was marked by unyielding devotion to the nation he loved. President Buhari’s legacy will endure as a testament to the nobility of public service, defined by honesty, discipline, and an unwavering commitment to the public good”, he said.

Offering prayers for the bereaved family and the nation, Osinbajo added, “We pray that the Almighty God will grant comfort and strength to his family, and to all who mourn his passing. May his memory always be blessed.”

In a separate statement, Ngelale, who served under Buhari as Senior Special Assistant on Public Affairs between 2019 and 2023, also issued a heartfelt tribute, calling the late leader “a good man and great leader.”

“President Buhari was my first boss in public service. Blessed with grace and unvarnished dignity, he was a man who—without exception—always did what he believed was right in every situation”, Ngelale recalled.

He praised Buhari’s “consistent simplicity, spartan discipline, and dogged dedication” to principles that shaped his time as a decorated military officer, Head of State, and two-term elected President of Nigeria.

Describing Buhari as “a man of method, structure, and exemplary discipline,” Ngelale said future generations would remember him for his unimpeachable personal integrity.

“President Buhari was a progressive who believed in the great destiny of our nation, and a relentless champion of the nation’s disadvantaged. His legacies of widespread infrastructural provision across rail, road, seaports, airports, and power, and his humane investments in the provision of social amenities… will stand the test of time”, Ngelale wrote.

He also cited the former president’s oil and gas sector reforms and the significant armament upgrades of the Nigerian armed forces under his administration.

“He will be sorely missed by millions of his dedicated followers, and I shall forever be proud of our association and indebted to him for the opportunity he extended to me to serve the nation we love,” Ngelale concluded. “May his soul rest in perfect peace.”