Several notable Nigerian figures have conveyed their profound grief on the departure of former President Muhammadu Buhari, calling it a major setback for the nation.
Buhari’s contribution to Nigeria’s leadership path was recognized by former President Olusegun Obasanjo, who acknowledged his service as a statesman and soldier. “The Katsina-born leader passed away at a time when the country could have benefited from his experience,” said Obasanjo, who led Nigeria as a military leader from 1976 to 1979 and then as an elected president from 1999 to 2007.
“Gen. Muhammad Buhari, a colleague, comrade, and fellow patriot, passed away this afternoon. He fulfilled his roles as an administrator, a soldier, and a statesman to the country.” His passing is a significant loss to the country because, at times like these, we need the combined wisdom—or, if I may use that term, the statesmanship—of all those who have had the chance to lead this nation in the past to help us escape our current predicament.
May his soul rest in peace, Obasanjo said, adding that he would be much missed.
Recalling their longtime relationship and common military experience, former Military President Ibrahim Babangida (retd.) also expressed his sorrow over Buhari’s passing.
“It is with a very heavy heart that I received the news of the passing of my friend, my brother, my course mate, and a fellow soldier in the journey of nationhood, President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR,” Babangida said in his tribute. When we both enrolled at the Nigerian Military Training College in Kaduna in 1962, our paths met. Muhammadu distinguished himself from those early days by being modest but principled, quiet but determined, strongly patriotic, and fiercely devoted to Nigeria.
We have experienced hardships and tribulations, hopes and setbacks, triumphs and times of introspection together throughout the years. We were united not just by military training but also by a common dedication to the principles of discipline, service, and patriotism,” he said.
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Yemi Osinbajo, a former vice president, too expressed sorrow for the deceased leader, calling Buhari a patriot who exemplified integrity and discipline. Serving under Buhari from 2015 until 2023, Osinbajo said he and his wife Dolapo were profoundly grieved by the news of Buhari’s passing, which took place in a hospital at London on Sunday.
“Dolapo and I received, with profound sadness, the news of the passing of His Excellency, former President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, this afternoon,” Osinbajo wrote in his message. In the minutes that followed, we spoke with Her Excellency Aisha Buhari and their son Yusuf Buhari to offer our sincere condolences and to convey our shared sorrow for their cherished family member, with whom we had the privilege of serving our country for eight unforgettable years.
In addition, Osinbajo remarked, “Nigeria has lost a true patriot, a man whose life was marked by unwavering devotion to the nation he loved.”
The legacy of President Buhari will live on as evidence of the dignity of public service, which is characterized by integrity, self-control, and a steadfast dedication to the common good.
Osinbajo offered prayers for Buhari’s family and the country as he wrapped off his homage.
We ask the Almighty God to give his family and everyone grieving his loss courage and consolation. May he always have a blessed remembrance.
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