President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Monday paid tribute to former President Muhammadu Buhari, describing him as a leader who taught Nigerians, especially the political class, that public office is a sacred trust, not a personal windfall.
Tinubu made the remarks at the official presentation of the biography, From Soldier to Statesman: The Legacy of Muhammadu Buhari, held at the State House Conference Centre, Abuja. He hailed Buhari’s enduring reputation for integrity, discipline, and modest living, noting that the former president’s true measure of leadership lay not in the privileges of office, but in the values that persist after power fades.
Describing himself as Buhari’s brother, friend, and political ally, Tinubu recalled their shared political journey and coalition-building efforts that led to the historic 2015 election victory, which unseated an incumbent government and reshaped Nigeria’s political landscape. He noted that the alliance laid the foundation for what has become the fastest-growing political party in Africa.
The President said the biography provides an honest account of Buhari’s life and leadership, highlighting achievements and shortcomings alike, and urged future leaders to draw lessons from history rather than rely on slogans. He identified humility, security, vision, and social justice as pillars of Buhari’s legacy, emphasizing his preference for simplicity, self-discipline, and prioritization of national security as the foundation for prosperity.
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Tinubu also commended Buhari’s long-term vision for infrastructure development, including roads, railways, bridges, and airports, as well as his commitment to social interventions that protect the poor and vulnerable. “His consistent love for Nigeria and faithfulness to his oath of office earned him respect, even among critics,” Tinubu said, pledging that his administration would honour and build upon Buhari’s legacy with discipline, compassion, and resolve.
The President lauded the author, Dr. Charles Omole, for enriching Nigeria’s collective memory, describing the 600-page biography as the most comprehensive account of Buhari’s life, guiding principles, values, and personal convictions.
Governor of Katsina State, Dikko Radda, in his welcome address, described Buhari as an incorruptible strategist whose leadership was defined by integrity and foresight in national security. He also praised the collaboration between Buhari and Tinubu that culminated in the 2015 electoral victory, adding that Tinubu was the ideal successor.
Speaking on behalf of the Buhari family, Hadiza Nana Buhari said the biography captures her father’s life of restraint, steadiness, and commitment to public service, urging young Nigerians to embrace integrity, moderation, and patience.
The event attracted dignitaries from across Nigeria and beyond, including President of The Gambia, Adama Barrow; former First Lady, Hajiya Aisha Buhari; traditional rulers such as the Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, and the Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III; as well as senior security and public service figures, including Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (rtd), Air Marshal Isiaka Amoo (rtd), Alhaji Yusuf Bichi, Vice Admiral Awwal Gambo (rtd), and former IGP Mohammed Asamu, who shared their experiences of working with the late president.
The presentation of the biography underscored Buhari’s enduring influence on Nigeria’s political and public service landscape, leaving a legacy of integrity, discipline, and national service for future generations.
