Buhari was great president, honest, loved by Nigerians, says Tinubu

President Bola Tinubu says the life and legacy of former President Muhammadu Buhari continue to inspire Nigeria through his enduring service, integrity and patriotism.

Mr Tinubu, represented by Vice-President Kashim Shettima, spoke on Monday during a prayer session in Abuja marking the first anniversary of Mr Buhari’s death.

He described Mr Buhari as a patriot whose character, devotion and service to Nigeria left an enduring imprint on the nation’s conscience and collective memory.

Mr Tinubu said Mr Buhari’s transformation from military ruler to civilian democrat distinguished him as one of the nation’s rare political figures. According to him, Mr Buhari’s legacy extended beyond public offices, reflecting lifelong consistency between his principles, words 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,” the president said.

Mr Tinubu reflected on the years of political partnership with Mr Buhari in pursuing a renewed, progressive and prosperous Nigeria founded on democratic ideals. He described the former president as a fellow traveller committed to nation-building, constitutional order and meaningful political transformation.

“From military leadership to democratic governance, he embodied the spirit of change and nation-building,” Mr Tinubu said.

The president noted that Mr Buhari retained the trust and affection of many ordinary Nigerians even after leaving office, despite political pressures and controversies. He described lasting public confidence as one of the greatest inheritances any leader could leave behind.

Mr Tinubu stressed that enduring public trust was earned through consistency, discipline, honesty and unwavering integrity throughout public life.

“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,” Mr Tinubu stated.

The president urged Mr Buhari’s friends, associates and political followers to preserve his legacy through honesty, simplicity and self-discipline.

“Our duty is to carry forward the inheritance he left us: honesty, simplicity and self-discipline,” he said.

Mr Tinubu said the most fitting tribute Nigerians could pay Mr Buhari was to uphold the values 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.

The president also reassured former first lady Aisha Buhari and her family of the government’s continued support.

“Please be assured that the nation and this administration stand beside you, now and in all the years to come,” Mr Tinubu said.

(NAN)