The Minister of Works, Senator David Nweze Umahi, has described the late former President Muhammadu Buhari as a statesman of exceptional discipline, integrity, and selfless commitment to national development.

A statement issued by Special Adviser on media, Uchenna Orji, said the minister disclosed this during the signing of the condolence register at the Ministry of Works headquarters in Abuja.

Umahi reflected on Buhari’s generosity, simplicity, and personal warmth, describing him as a leader who upheld fairness, national unity, and accountability throughout his time in office.

He described him as a leader who upheld fairness, national unity, and accountability throughout his time in office.

According to him, the former president played a crucial role in safeguarding the will of the people during a politically sensitive period in Ebonyi State, ensuring the emergence of his successor in the face of opposition.

He described the intervention as a reflection of Buhari’s unwavering commitment to justice and party discipline.

He stressed that Buhari’s 2022 visit to Ebonyi State demonstrated his dedication to infrastructure development. “During the visit, the president commissioned numerous projects from morning until late into the night, maintaining a cheerful and humble presence throughout the engagements.

“The airport in Ebonyi, which was initially named in Buhari’s honour, was later renamed by the president in memory of the late Senator Chuba Okadigbo, a gesture the minister described as an example of Buhari’s humility and selfless leadership,” the statement noted.

Umahi also acknowledged the significant support Buhari extended to governors across the country, including key economic interventions such as the Paris Club refund and the Anchor Borrowers’ Programme. These efforts, he noted, left a lasting imprint on national development.

He described Buhari’s passing as a profound national loss, noting that his leadership style, principles, and legacy would continue to inspire generations.

The minister extended condolences to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Buhari family, and the entire nation.

He also commended Tinubu for the honour and recognition accorded to his predecessor, both during his lifetime and after his death, emphasising the continuity of mutual respect and statesmanship between the two leaders.