President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his predecessors, including Olusegun Obasanjo, Goodluck Jonathan, and Ibrahim Babangida, have mourned the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari, praising his legacy of discipline, patriotism, and selfless service to the nation.
The leaders described Buhari as a principled soldier, a dedicated public servant, and a symbol of national resilience whose contributions will be remembered for generations.
They prayed that Allah forgives his shortcomings and grants him Al-Jannah Firdaus.
He championed discipline in public service – Tinubu
President Tinubu, in a statement he signed, said Buhari championed discipline in public service, confronted corruption head-on and stood firm through the most turbulent times.
He said the federal government would accord Buhari full state honours befitting his towering contributions to our country.
Tinubu said, “President Buhari was to the very core, a patriot, a soldier, a statesman. His legacy of service and sacrifice endures. He served Nigeria with unwavering dedication, first as a military leader from January 1984 to August 1985, and later as a democratically elected President from 2015 to 2023. Duty, honour, and a deep commitment to the unity and progress of our nation defined his life.
“He stood firm through the most turbulent times, leading with quiet strength, profound integrity, and an unshakable belief in Nigeria’s potential. He championed discipline in public service, confronted corruption head-on, and placed the country above personal interest at every turn.
“We honour his service. We reflect on his legacy. And we pray for the peaceful repose of his soul.”
He died when Nigeria needs past leaders’ experience – Obasanjo
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo described the late Muhammadu Buhari as a true patriot who served Nigeria diligently as a soldier, administrator, and statesman.
Speaking in Abeokuta, Ogun State, Obasanjo said Buhari’s death comes at a critical time when the country needs the wisdom and experience of its past leaders to help navigate its current challenges.
“His demise comes at a time like this that we need the totality of the experience and what I may call statesmanship of all of those who have had the opportunity to run the affairs of this country in the past to get us out of the situation we are in,” Obasanjo said.
He was a symbol of patriotism, integrity – IBB
Former Military President, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, hailed Buhari as a friend, brother, and patriot whose life exemplified dedication to Nigeria.
In a statement, Babangida recalled their bond, which began in 1962 at the Nigerian Military Training College in Kaduna. He described Buhari as a quiet yet resolute and principled man, deeply loyal to Nigeria.
“We shared trenches and trials, dreams and disappointments, victories and moments of reflection.
“Even in retirement, Buhari remained a moral compass and an example of modesty in public life,” Babangida said.
He was courageous leader, disciplined officer – Jonathan
Former President Goodluck Jonathan described him as a courageous leader who served the nation with character and a sense of patriotism.
Jonathan said Buhari would be remembered as a courageous leader, a disciplined officer, and a committed public servant who made considerable contributions towards the peace and progress of our dear nation.
“The late President was deeply admired across the strata of society for his decency, integrity and exemplary life of service. As a leader, he was selfless in his commitment to his duty and served the country with character and a deep sense of patriotism,” Jonathan said in a statement by his media aide, Ikechukwu Eze.
Buhari’s death Nigeria’s biggest loss in recent times – Shettima
Vice President Kashim Shettima called Buhari’s death the biggest loss Nigeria has ever incurred in recent times.
“Buhari’s legacies as an archetypal public servant, having served in several positions in the military before ascending the highest office in the land as Head of State, and civilian President after two decades, will continue to serve as a leading light for future leaders to follow.
“Indeed, he lived a life that transcended the ordinary-a life of selflessness, a life defined by bravery in the face of adversity and integrity in public service,” Shettima said in a statement by his media aide, Stanley Nkwocha.
He was a symbol of Nigeria’s resilience – Atiku
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, in a statement he personally signed, said Buhari’s life was defined by unflinching patriotism, stoic discipline, and a lifelong commitment to the sovereignty and unity of our great nation.
Atiku said, “President Buhari was not just a former Head of State, he was a symbol of Nigeria’s resilience. From the battlefield to the corridors of power, he served with the kind of austere conviction and firm belief in duty that marked him as a soldier of principle and a leader of formidable will.”
Nigeria has lost a true patriot – Osinbajo
Former vice president Yemi Osinbajo said Nigeria has lost a true patriot with the passing of Buhari, whose life was marked by unyielding devotion to the nation he loved.
He said, “President Buhari’s legacy will endure as a testament to the nobility of public service, defined by honesty, discipline, and an unwavering commitment to the public good.”
He was a leader of great integrity – Akpabio
Senate President Godswill Akpabio, in a statement personally signed by him, said the late former president was “a fine military officer who served Nigeria with zeal and patriotism and upon retirement transitioned to a democratic icon.”
Akpabio said, “Buhari commanded an unprecedented cult followership in the political history of Nigeria due to his characteristic stance against corruption, unrelenting pursuit of genuine democratic ideals and his staunch support for the unity and stability of the nation.”
Buhari lived most of his life serving Nigeria – Speaker Abbas
The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen, said the former president lived most of his lifetime in service to Nigeria.
In a statement by his media aide, Musa Abdullahi Krishi, the Speaker said, “Buhari carved a niche for himself as an incorruptible leader, a man of integrity, and an unflinching commitment to nation-building. His life was also defined by uncommon simplicity.”
He was an untiring peace promoter – Barau
Deputy Senate President, Barau Jibrin, in a statement by his spokesperson, Ismail Mudashir, described Buhari as an untiring promoter of peace and unity in the country.
He said, “President Buhari was not just a towering figure in our nation’s history but a man whose life embodied discipline, resilience, and patriotism. Throughout his lifetime, he was committed to Nigeria’s unity, security and development.”
It’s end of an era – Sultan
The Sultan of Sokoto and President General of the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, described the passing of Buhari as “the end of an era,” underscoring the significant contributions he made towards nation-building and his unwavering belief in the traditional institution as a pathway to achieve a Nigeria characterised by peace, unity, and prosperity.
A statement by the Sultan’s media team said Buhari’s “legacy of leadership, rooted in truth, patriotism, and national integrity, will resonate in the minds of not only our generation but those yet to come. History will continue to acknowledge his contributions.”
Buhari’s death major loss to Africa – Governors
The Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) described Buhari’s death as a major loss to Nigeria and the African continent.
In a statement signed by the NGF Chairman and Governor of Kwara State, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, the forum noted that Buhari’s contributions to national development, his strategic patience, humility, and modest lifestyle stood him out among Africa’s greats.
“This death is a significant depletion in the ranks of Africa’s all-time great men. Muhammadu Buhari was not just a former President or military leader; he was a national political figure whose legacy will continue to inspire”, the governors said.
Also, the Northern States Governors’ Forum (NSGF) said the late president was an iconic figure, whose life embodied discipline, integrity and steadfast commitment to the service of Nigeria.
The chairman of the forum and Governor of Gombe State, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, in a statement, said “To us in the Northern Governors’ Forum, President Buhari was not just a national icon, but also a mentor and moral compass who stood firm on the principles of accountability, transparency and good governance. He mentored with humility, governed with courage and lived a life marked by simplicity and patriotism.”
Katsina State Governor, Dikko Umaru Radda, said the late president “was not just a leader; he was the embodiment of the common man’s aspirations. His people-oriented programmes and genuine love for the masses defined his leadership philosophy.”
The governor also declared Monday, 14th July 2025, a work-free day in the state in honour of the late president.
The state government said the holiday was to enable workers and residents to join the rest of the country in mourning the loss and offering prayers for the late leader.
Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State hailed Buhari as “a patriotic elder statesman, firm in his convictions, calm in demeanour, yet unwavering in his commitment to national unity and good governance.
“The late president’s humble lifestyle and his belief in transparency and accountability serve as enduring examples for leaders at all levels of government. His stoic demeanour and ability to maintain personal discipline, even at the height of political power, are attributes worthy of emulation by current and future generations,” Bala Mohammed said.
Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, said although death is inevitable to mankind, Buhari’s demise at this critical time of Nigeria’s democratic journey is colossal, as the vacuum created is going to be difficult to fill.
“Buhari distinguished himself as a detribalized leader of conviction and purpose. His legacy is one of sacrifice, selflessness and steadfast commitment to the unity, security and progress of our dear country,” Zulum said in a statement.
Yobe State Governor, Mai Mala Buni, described former President Buhari as a nationalist who dedicated his life to the unity and service of his fatherland, saying, “his death is a sad, huge and monumental loss to the country.
“As a military man, he fought for Nigeria’s unity, as a military head of state, he committed himself to national service, and as a civilian president, he served with honour and commitment to the development and strengthening of democracy,” Buni said.
Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, said Buhari was a towering figure whose life embodied discipline, integrity, and unwavering love for Nigeria.
Governor Nasir Idris of Kebbi State said Buhari would be remembered for his truthfulness and love for Nigeria.
Nasarawa State Governor, Abdullahi Sule, hailed Buhari as a symbol of honesty and discipline whose leadership inspired many. He recalled Buhari’s close ties with Nasarawa and prayed for Allah’s mercy and forgiveness upon him.
Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, also mourned the former president, calling his death a sorrowful moment for the entire country.
Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State described Buhari’s death as a “colossal loss” to Nigeria, emphasising his integrity and selfless dedication to national development.
He noted that Buhari’s life embodied forthrightness and inspired future generations with his unwavering service to the country.
Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, said the late former president demonstrated unparalleled leadership skills, patriotism, and courage in steering the ship of Nigeria. He was a respected leader who served Nigeria passionately in different capacities and left with an unblemished record.
Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, praised Buhari’s integrity and unquantifiable contributions to governance.
Governor Agbu Kefas of Taraba credited Buhari with strengthening Nigeria’s unity and upholding democratic values during challenging times.
Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, and former Katsina State Governor, Aminu Masari, also paid glowing tributes. They praised Buhari’s humility, patriotism, and commitment to anti-corruption, saying his legacy of integrity and leadership will be remembered for generations.
Nigeria lost distinguished statesman – Senator Adamu
Former National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Senator Abdullahi Adamu, said Buhari was “a distinguished statesman and patriot” who left an impeccable record of integrity and selfless service to Nigeria.
Adamu, in a statement he personally signed, said Buhari’s emergence as the first Nigerian to defeat a sitting President was not an accidental occurrence, but “was a result of his integrity and patriotism”.
“From his days as a young military officer to the time he emerged as our elected leader, President Muhammadu Buhari stood tall for his forthrightness, discipline and integrity. He was a pathfinder for his unmatched honesty and his selfless services to Nigeria”, said Senator Adamu.
Also, Senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko said that with Buhari’s death, Nigeria has lost one of its most iconic and selfless leaders, an incorruptible patriot, a disciplined statesman, and a symbol of integrity who dedicated his entire life to the service of our nation with honour, courage, and unshakable commitment.
Wamakko, in a statement, said: “President Buhari governed with a rare blend of simplicity, sincerity, and steadfast vision. Under his leadership, critical national infrastructure witnessed a renaissance-from road and rail development to power and agricultural transformation. His impact reached every corner of Nigeria, especially the long-neglected northern region, where he championed projects that uplifted the lives of ordinary citizens.”
The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), in a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Prof. Tukur Muhammad-Baba, described Buhari as a dominant figure in Nigeria’s political and governance landscape over the past six decades.
The ACF noted that while his legacy may spark diverse opinions, Buhari enjoyed unmatched loyalty from the Northern grassroots.
Similarly, the Northern chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), led by Reverend Joseph John Hayab, said Buhari’s passing marks the end of a significant chapter in Nigeria’s history.
He acknowledged the late president’s commitment to unity, patriotism, and discipline, despite divided opinions about some of his policies during his tenure.
The Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation (SABMF), through its Director General, Engineer Abubakar Gambo Umar, praised Buhari’s focus on national security, infrastructure, and agriculture, urging Nigerians to reflect on his legacy and recommit to good governance, justice, and unity.
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), despite being in opposition, expressed deep sadness over Buhari’s death. PDP spokesperson Debo Ologunagba described him as a disciplined and courageous leader who played multiple roles in Nigeria’s development, including as a military leader, governor, and president.
Governors of the All Progressives Congress (APC), under the Progressives Governors’ Forum, chaired by Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo State, mourned Buhari as an “unparalleled patriot” whose leadership exemplified integrity and sacrifice. They emphasised his anti-corruption stance and lasting impact on governance in Nigeria.
Also reacting, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) described Buhari as a towering statesman whose humility, discipline, and intolerance for corruption left an indelible mark. ADC’s Bolaji Abdullahi called him a symbol of patriotism and prayed for Allah’s mercy upon his soul and comfort for the nation.
