PRESIDENT Bola Tinubu today led a heartfelt tribute to former President Muhammadu Buhari during a special session of the Federal Executive Council (FEC) held at the State House in Abuja.
Buhari, who passed away in a London hospital on Sunday, was laid to rest in Daura, Katsina State, on Tuesday. President Tinubu was among the dignitaries in attendance.
The special FEC session drew a wide array of top government officials, including members of the National Assembly, the Federal Executive Council, leaders of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, and members of Buhari’s family.
In his tribute, President Tinubu lauded Buhari as a leader who governed with dignity and self-restraint.
He described him as someone who shouldered the weight of leadership without complaint, and who remained loyal to principle rather than popularity.
“He was first among soldiers in war, first among citizens in peace, and first, without ambition or flattery, in the hearts of his fellow citizens,” Tinubu said.
“But it was in the simplicity of his private life that his greatness truly shone—pious without display, just without cruelty, and sincere without deceit.”
Tinubu recalled Buhari’s respectful nature among peers and his humility toward subordinates.
“He was kind without condescension, tender and loyal to those closest to him,” he noted. “His life was a rebuke to vice and a refuge for virtue.”
He continued, “Even in his final moments, Buhari remained serene—not a sigh, not a groan, just quiet submission to God’s will. His patriotism was expressed more in action than in words. He resisted the temptations of power, applause, and comfort, choosing instead the lonely but righteous path.”
President Tinubu also reflected on Buhari’s lifelong dedication to Nigeria—from his days as a young soldier fighting to preserve national unity, to his decades in public service.
“He lived a life of austere honour. He remained upright and unswayed, always placing Nigeria first,” he said.
Tinubu expressed gratitude to the Inter-Ministerial Committee chaired by Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, and Katsina State Governor, Dikko Radda, for organising a dignified state burial within 48 hours.
He extended condolences to Buhari’s widow, Aisha, their children, the people of Katsina State, and everyone who admired and respected the late president.
“We honour his legacy, reflect on his service, and pray for the peaceful repose of his soul,” Tinubu concluded.