Tinubu Remembers Buhari One Year After His Death

President Bola Tinubu has said that the life and legacy of the late former President Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away on July 13, 2025, continues to resonate with Nigerians. He mentioned that Buhari's journey from military ruler to civilian democrat sets him apart in Nigeria's history.

Tinubu encouraged political leaders and public officials to follow Buhari's example by embracing values like honesty, simplicity, and self-discipline in their duties.

During a prayer session in Abuja on Monday to mark the first anniversary of Buhari’s death, Tinubu was represented by his deputy, Vice President Kashim Shettima. Shettima described Buhari as a patriot whose service and dedication to Nigeria left a lasting mark on the nation.

Tinubu stated that Buhari's legacy goes beyond the positions he held. It reflects a life of consistency between his words, principles, and actions.

"President Buhari gave everything he had to this country, and he gave it without reservation. He served with courage, with conviction, and with a patriotism that never asked what the nation could return to him," he said.

The president recalled their time as political allies, describing Buhari as a partner in the quest for a renewed and prosperous Nigeria. He stated, "From his years as a military leader to his transformation into a democrat and a determined defender of constitutional order, he embodied the very spirit of change and of nation-building."

Tinubu pointed out that despite the pressures and controversies of high office, Buhari maintained the trust and affection of many ordinary Nigerians after leaving power. He noted that this trust is one of the greatest inheritances a leader can leave behind.

"When he laid down the burden of leadership, and through all the years of his retirement, the trust of ordinary Nigerians did not depart from him. It is not given. It is earned, and it is earned only through a lifetime of agreement between what a man says and what a man is," he stated.

The president urged Buhari’s friends, associates, and political followers to keep his legacy alive by reflecting his values in their actions and public service. "Our duty, as his friends and his associates, is to carry forward the inheritance he left us: honesty, simplicity, and self-discipline," he said.

He added that the best tribute Nigerians could pay to Buhari is to uphold the standards of character, patriotism, and public responsibility that marked his life. "We must continue to strive, in our own conduct, to approach the standard he kept. That is the only tribute worthy of him, and it is the one he would have asked for," he said.

Tinubu also assured former First Lady Aisha Buhari and the Buhari family of the federal government's ongoing support. "Please be assured that the nation and this administration stand beside you, now and in all the years to come," the president stated.

He prayed that Almighty Allah would continue to comfort the family and grant the former president Aljannah Firdaus.

Earlier, former Head of State Yakubu Gowon recalled the events surrounding Buhari's death and burial, noting the love and respect he had from both citizens and non-citizens.

Governor of Borno State, Babagana Zulum, said the gathering was not just to remember the former leader but to reflect on his life and values that continue to influence governance in Borno State and beyond. He noted that Buhari's unique approach to leadership and service is worth emulating.

Zulum stated that the greatest tribute to Buhari is not just in the words spoken but in the prayers offered for the repose of his soul and the preservation of his legacies.

In his welcome speech, former SGF Boss Mustapha said the occasion was not just about remembering Buhari but also about reflecting on his dedication to humanity and service to the nation.

Mustapha mentioned that Buhari's life and contributions are evident in the tributes from distinguished Nigerians and associates present. He announced the family's decision to set up a foundation in honor of the late president, emphasizing that all leaders and Nigerians should work to preserve his legacies.

Governor of Katsina State, represented by his deputy Farouk Jobe, thanked President Tinubu for supporting both Katsina State and the Buhari family during the burial and for ensuring his legacies are preserved. He urged Nigerians to stay committed to democracy and good governance, which defined Buhari’s time as leader from 2015 to 2023.

In separate comments, Buhari’s former aides, friends, and associates paid tribute and offered prayers for his soul and family. Special prayers for his continued repose were led by Archbishop Emeritus John Cardinal Onaiyekan and Imam Sheikh Abdulkadir Sholagberu, along with other religious and traditional leaders.

The event concluded with Vice President Shettima presenting a book of tributes.