PRESS STATEMENT – TRIBUTE TO AN ICON: HIS EXCELLENCY, MUHAMMADU BUHARI, GCFR

The passing of His Excellency, Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, former President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, is a profound national loss — and for me, an intensely personal one.

Throughout his life, he personified the highest ideals of patriotism, integrity, and devotion to Nigeria’s unity and progress. Yet, beyond his public service, it was his personal virtues — humility, discipline, and a profound sense of duty — that deeply inspired those fortunate enough to know him.

President Buhari was far more than a leader; he was a father figure, a mentor, and a trusted family friend whose guidance, wisdom, and unwavering belief in my potential left an indelible mark on my life and career.

When I made the pivotal decision to join the All Progressives Congress (APC), President Buhari, in his characteristic display of thoughtfulness and grace, sent a personal letter of congratulations to me, conveying both his blessings and regrets for his inability to attend the welcome ceremony due to prior commitments. That gesture spoke volumes about the depth of our relationship — one anchored in mutual respect and genuine affection.

I remain eternally grateful for the confidence he placed in me. He entrusted me with two critical national assignments: first, as Federal Commissioner of the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants, and Internally Displaced Persons, and subsequently as Director-General of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP). These opportunities were not merely appointments; they were expressions of his enduring faith in my commitment to national service.

I vividly recall one of my meetings with him in his office during my tenure as Federal Commissioner. I informed him of my plan to construct housing units to resettle displaced persons across the country. His response was immediate and deeply affirming: “I am proud of this initiative, and I bless it.” That moment of encouragement and his heartfelt blessing became a turning point. Today, those words have borne fruit, with resettlement cities being built across the nation — restoring hope, dignity, and stability to thousands of our fellow citizens who had been displaced. This enduring legacy stands as a testament to his visionary support and genuine concern for the most vulnerable among us.

His connection with my family was equally profound. As a close friend of my late uncle, former Head of State General Sani Abacha, GCFR, President Buhari always extended a warm hand of solidarity to my family. When I lost my mother, he phoned me personally — as the sitting President — to offer heartfelt condolences, bringing immense comfort to us during that moment of grief.

A testament to his humility and unwavering sense of spiritual duty was our last planned engagement before his passing. I had invited him to serve as Guest of Honour at a Qur’anic recitation competition held in honour of the late Hajiya Abibatu Mogaji, the beloved mother of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR. He had personally assured me that he would attend, and I was deeply moved by his willingness to honour such a sacred occasion. However, just days before the event, I received a heartfelt letter from him. He expressed sincere regret for being unable to attend, explaining that he had been held up in London due to scheduled medical checkup. His words were filled with apology, reflection, and characteristic grace — and though he was absent in person, he ensured his presence was felt by sending a distinguished representative on his behalf. That gesture — even in the midst of personal health challenges — spoke volumes about the kind of man he was: loyal to his word, committed to his faith, and deeply respectful of the bonds of friendship and responsibility.

President Muhammadu Buhari lived a life defined by sacrifice, simplicity, and service. From his gallant days as a military officer, to his stewardship as Head of State, and later as a democratically elected President, he dedicated himself wholly and selflessly to the Nigerian nation.

On behalf of my family and office, I extend our deepest condolences to his beloved family, close associates, and the entire nation. May Almighty Allah, in His infinite mercy, forgive his shortcomings, accept his good deeds, and grant him eternal rest in Aljannatul Firdaus.

Senator Basheer Lado, CON
Special Adviser to the President on Senate Matters