Tinubu Says Buhari Was A Great President Loved By Nigerians

President Bola Tinubu has stated that former President Muhammadu Buhari’s life and legacy remain a source of inspiration for Nigeria, citing his lasting service, integrity and love for country.

Speaking through Vice-President Kashim Shettima, the president addressed a prayer session held in Abuja on Monday to commemorate one year since Buhari’s passing.

He portrayed Buhari as a devoted patriot whose character and years of national service left a lasting mark on Nigeria’s collective memory and conscience.

According to President Tinubu, Buhari’s shift from military head of state to elected civilian leader set him apart as one of Nigeria’s most exceptional political figures.

He noted that Buhari’s impact went beyond the offices he held, pointing to a lifelong alignment between his beliefs, statements and actions.

“President Buhari gave everything he had to this country, and he gave it without reservation,” Tinubu said.

“He served with courage, conviction and patriotism that never asked what the nation could return to him.”

Tinubu looked back on his political journey alongside Buhari in the effort to build a renewed, forward-looking and prosperous Nigeria grounded in democratic principles.

He characterised the former president as a partner in nation-building who was dedicated to constitutional governance and genuine political change.

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

The president pointed out that even after his time in office, Buhari continued to hold the trust and goodwill of many everyday Nigerians, notwithstanding political tensions and controversies he faced.

He called this kind of lasting public trust one of the most valuable legacies any leader could leave.

Tinubu emphasised that such trust is built over time through discipline, honesty, consistency and steadfast integrity in public service.

“When he laid down leadership, the trust of ordinary Nigerians never departed from him,” the president said.

“It is not given. It is earned through a lifetime of agreement between what a man says and what a man is.”

He called on Buhari’s friends, allies and political supporters to keep his legacy alive by embracing honesty, simplicity and self-discipline.

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

The best way for Nigerians to honour Buhari, Tinubu added, was by living out the values of patriotism, integrity and civic responsibility that he represented.

“We must strive in our conduct to approach the standard he kept. That is the tribute worthy of him,” he said.

Tinubu also offered continued assurance of support to former first lady Aisha Buhari and her family.

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