AS Nigerians continue to mourn the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari, his daughters have paid heartfelt tributes, painting a picture of a humble and principled man who lived simply and raised his children with strong values.
Buhari died on Sunday in a London hospital after battling a prolonged illness, and tributes have been pouring in from across the country and beyond.
In an emotional interview with BBC Hausa yesterday, Aisha Hanan Buhari, one of the late president’s younger daughters, expressed deep sorrow over his death, describing the loss as personal and irreplaceable.
“What I’ll miss most about him is his sense of humour,” she said. “He was a part of me. I looked up to him.”
She also expressed gratitude to Nigerians who held no grudges against her father, saying, “We have nothing to say to them except thank you and thank God.” She added that Buhari was always driven by good intentions for the nation and described him as “one of the common people.”
Hanan recalled how her father’s discipline shaped her. “He taught us to study, pray, and find happiness in the little things.”
Her older sister, Hadiza Muhammadu Buhari — fondly called Nana — shared her own memories, particularly one during Buhari’s treatment in London.
“When he got better, I told him I was returning to Nigeria. He asked, ‘Where are you going?’ When I said Nigeria, he replied, ‘Greet Nigerians,’” she recounted.
Nana said her father often called her “Madam Nana,” and they shared lighthearted conversations and laughter.
She highlighted the moral compass Buhari instilled in his children through simple yet impactful life lessons. Recalling a childhood incident, she said:
“Once, he gave us money for textbooks. I had some change left and used it to buy sweets. When I returned and gave him the remaining money, he told me it wasn’t right. He explained that if someone sends you to buy something, you must return every leftover kobo. If they choose to give it to you, fine — but don’t take what isn’t yours.”
Describing his personality, Nana said, “He was patient, tolerant, and quiet. He didn’t like noise. Even when insulted, he rarely retaliated. He was humorous, social, and easygoing.”
As Nigerians reflect on Buhari’s legacy, his daughters’ tributes offer a personal glimpse into the values and character of the man behind the presidency — a father remembered for his discipline, integrity, and simplicity.