Tributes Pour in as Nigeria Remembers a Leader Defined by Discipline, Unity, and Service

Prominent Nigerian leaders and political groups have continued to mourn the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari, who died in London on Sunday at the age of 82.

Among those who have paid tribute are the Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau Jibrin; Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rep. Benjamin Kalu; former Minister of Interior, Rauf Aregbesola; and the Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG). They each lauded the late president’s enduring impact on Nigeria’s development, unity, and governance.

Senator Barau Jibrin: "A Towering Figure in Our Nation’s History"

In a statement released by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ismail Mudashir, Senator Barau Jibrin (APC, Kano North) described Buhari as a man who exemplified patriotism, resilience, and discipline.

“President Buhari was not just a towering figure in our nation’s history, but a man whose life embodied discipline, resilience, and patriotism,” Jibrin said. “He served Nigeria with honour both as a military leader and as a democratically elected President. History will remember him for his efforts to reshape our national trajectory.”

He extended heartfelt condolences to the former First Lady, Aisha Buhari, and the entire family, praying that Almighty Allah grants the late president Al-Jannah Firdaus and strength to the family to bear the loss.

Coalition of Northern Groups: "A Pillar in Defining Moments"

In its tribute, the Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG), through its spokesperson Comrade Jamilu Aliyu Charanchi, expressed profound sorrow and described Buhari as a steady pillar during some of Nigeria’s most critical periods.

“His contributions, sacrifices, and leadership—though subject to the judgments of history—will forever be etched in Nigeria’s national memory,” the statement read.

The group also called on Nigeria’s current leaders to reflect on the transient nature of life and power and to renew their commitment to justice, good governance, and national development.

Deputy Speaker Kalu: "Integrity That Will Inspire Generations"

Rep. Benjamin Kalu, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, described Buhari’s death as a loss not only to Nigeria but to the international community.

In a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Levinus Nwabughiogu, Kalu said:

“President Buhari’s legacies both as a former military ruler and two-term civilian president will continue to inspire generations. His rice revolution and unwavering stance against indiscipline are examples of leadership with impact.”

He urged Nigerians to draw lessons from Buhari’s life and recommit themselves to building a better, more united nation.

Aregbesola: "Nigeria Has Lost a True Statesman"

Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, former Minister of Interior and Interim National Secretary of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), remembered Buhari as a man of principle and unshakable integrity.

“Today, we bid farewell to President Muhammadu Buhari, a leader who served Nigeria with deep conviction. His commitment to integrity and national unity defined his years in public office,” Aregbesola said.

Having worked closely with Buhari for eight years in cabinet, Aregbesola emphasized the former president’s unwavering belief in Nigeria’s potential and called on citizens to build upon the legacy he left behind.

As the nation mourns, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed that all national flags be flown at half-mast in honour of the late leader. Vice President Kashim Shettima has also been dispatched to the United Kingdom to accompany Buhari’s remains back to Nigeria for burial in accordance with Islamic rites.