President says the late former leader’s life of honesty, discipline and selfless service remains a model for public office as Nigeria marks the first anniversary of his death.
Abuja: President Bola Tinubu has called on Nigerian leaders to preserve and uphold the legacy of former President Muhammadu Buhari by embracing the values of integrity, patriotism, honesty and selfless service that defined his public life.
Tinubu, represented by Vice-President Kashim Shettima, made the call on Monday during a special prayer session in Abuja to mark the first anniversary of Buhari’s death.
He described the late former president as a patriot whose life of service, discipline and unwavering commitment to Nigeria left an enduring imprint on the nation’s history and collective conscience.
According to the President, Buhari’s evolution from military Head of State to democratically elected President distinguished him as one of Nigeria’s most remarkable political figures.
Tinubu said Buhari’s legacy extended far beyond the offices he occupied, reflecting a rare consistency between his principles, public pronouncements and personal conduct.
“President Buhari gave everything he had to this country, and he gave it without reservation.
“He served with courage, conviction and patriotism that never asked what the nation could return to him,” he said.
The President recalled his years of political partnership with Buhari in pursuing a progressive, democratic and prosperous Nigeria.
He described the late leader as a steadfast ally committed to nation-building, constitutional democracy and meaningful political reform.
“From military leadership to democratic governance, he embodied the spirit of change and nation-building,” Tinubu said.
He noted that Buhari retained the trust and affection of millions of ordinary Nigerians even after leaving office, despite the political pressures and controversies that accompanied his administration.
According to Tinubu, such enduring public confidence remains one of the greatest legacies any leader can leave behind.
“When he laid down leadership, the trust of ordinary Nigerians never departed from him.
“It is not given. It is earned through a lifetime of agreement between what a man says and what a man is,” he added.
Tinubu urged Buhari’s friends, political associates and supporters to preserve his legacy by living lives anchored on honesty, simplicity and self-discipline.
“Our duty is to carry forward the inheritance he left us: honesty, simplicity and self-discipline,” he said.
The President stressed that the most fitting tribute Nigerians could pay the late statesman was to uphold the ideals of patriotism, character and public responsibility.
“We must strive in our conduct to approach the standard he kept. That is the tribute worthy of him,” he said.
Tinubu also assured former First Lady Aisha Buhari and the Buhari family of the Federal Government’s continued support.
“Please be assured that the nation and this administration stand beside you, now and in all the years to come,” he said.
He prayed for Almighty Allah to continue to comfort the Buhari family and grant the late former President Aljannah Firdaus.
Earlier, former Head of State, Gen. Yakubu Gowon, recalled the events surrounding Buhari’s death and burial, saying the widespread outpouring of grief reflected the respect and admiration he commanded across Nigeria and beyond.
Also speaking, Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum described the gathering as an opportunity not only to remember Buhari but also to reflect on the virtues that defined his life and leadership.
Zulum said Buhari’s modest lifestyle, commitment to good governance and dedication to public service continued to inspire leadership in Borno State and across the country.
According to him, the greatest honour Nigerians could bestow on the late President was not merely through tributes but by praying for his eternal rest and preserving the enduring values he represented.
