President Tinubu Marks One Year Since Former President Buhari's Death

President Bola Tinubu said the life and legacy of the late former President Muhammadu Buhari continue to speak to Nigerians one year after his death. Speaking on Monday in Abuja at a prayer session marking the anniversary, the president, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, described Buhari's shift from military ruler to civilian democrat as a rare example in the country's history.

"President Buhari gave everything he had to this country, and he gave it without reservation. He served with courage, with conviction, and with a patriotism that never asked what the nation could return to him," Tinubu said.

Tinubu said Buhari's legacy extended beyond the offices he held and reflected consistency between his words and conduct. He noted that Buhari retained the trust of many ordinary Nigerians after leaving office. "When he laid down the burden of leadership, and through all the years of his retirement, the trust of ordinary Nigerians did not depart from him," the president stated.

Tinubu urged Buhari's friends, associates and political followers to preserve that legacy by upholding honesty, simplicity and self-discipline.

Head of State Yakubu Gowon recalled the events surrounding Buhari's death and burial, noting the respect the former leader commanded among citizens and non-citizens. The Governor of Borno State said the gathering reflected on Buhari's virtues and lifestyle, which continue to shape governance in the state.

The Governor of Katsina State, represented by his deputy Farouk Jobe, thanked President Tinubu for support during the burial and for efforts to preserve Buhari's legacy. Tinubu assured former First Lady Aisha Buhari and family members of continued federal government support.