President Bola Tinubu on Thursday led a moving tribute at a special Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting in honour of former President Muhammadu Buhari, who died in London on July 13, 2025. He was 82.
Buhari, Nigeria’s president from 2015 to 2023 and military head of state from 1983 to 1985, was buried in Daura, Katsina State, on Tuesday, July 15. Tinubu, alongside other top officials, attended the burial.
The special session at the State House in Abuja drew members of the Federal Executive Council, National Assembly leaders, governors, and Buhari’s children.
“The former president led with restraint, governed with dignity, and bore the burdens of leadership without complaint,” Tinubu said.
“He Lived with Quiet Courage” – Tinubu
President Tinubu described Buhari as a humble man whose private life reflected his true greatness.
“Pious without show, just without cruelty, humane without sentimentality, temperate without coldness, and sincere without guile,” he said.
“His example guided all who encountered him. Still, it endures.”
Tinubu said Buhari’s respect for others and unwavering loyalty made him stand out in both public and private life.
“Even in death, he maintained the serenity that defined him in life: not a sigh, not a groan, just a quiet submission to the will of God,” he added.
The President called Buhari’s life “a rebuke to vice and a refuge for virtue.” He described him as unshaken by power, applause, or isolation.
“His patriotism was lived more in action than in words,” Tinubu noted.
He praised Buhari for his long record of service spanning over 50 years, calling him a symbol of Nigeria’s unity in both war and peace.
University of Maiduguri Renamed After Buhari
In a symbolic gesture, President Tinubu announced that the University of Maiduguri will now be known as Muhammadu Buhari University, Maiduguri.
“Can we adopt the naming of the University of Maiduguri with a new name — Muhammadu Buhari University, Maiduguri,” Tinubu asked, to loud applause from the audience.
Buhari’s son, Yusuf Buhari, who attended the session with his siblings, thanked Tinubu and other Nigerians for their support.
“It has shown that he was regarded far more than a politician, but as a friend and a father,” Yusuf said.
“Your visits, calls, and prayers symbolise a great honour to the memory of our late father, and we’re sincerely grateful,” he added, fighting back tears.
A Nation Reflects on a Long Life of Service
Buhari died in a London hospital after a prolonged illness. His body was flown to Nigeria and laid to rest in Daura.
He was Nigeria’s second-longest-serving leader, remembered for his discipline, integrity, and austere lifestyle.
President Tinubu thanked the Inter-Ministerial Committee led by George Akume and Governor Dikko Radda for organising the state funeral within 48 hours.
He also extended condolences to Aisha Buhari, the children, and the people of Katsina State.
“We honour his service, reflect on his legacy, and pray for the peaceful repose of his soul,” Tinubu said.
Rate, Like 👍, Comment💬, share this article, Follow us on our social media handles, and Submit your own story to get featured and earn rewards!
WhatsApp Channel
Telegram Channel
