Tinubu Urges Leaders to Emulate Buhari’s Integrity, Simplicity at First Anniversary Prayer Session
Tinubu Urges Leaders to Emulate Buhari’s Integrity, Simplicity at First Anniversary Prayer Session
Tinubu Urges Leaders to Emulate Buhari’s Integrity, Simplicity at First Anniversary Prayer Session
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has said the life and legacy of former President Muhammadu Buhari continue to inspire Nigerians, describing his transition from military ruler to democratically elected president as a rare chapter in the nation’s history.
The President also called on political leaders and public office holders to emulate Buhari’s virtues of honesty, simplicity, patriotism and self-discipline in the discharge of their responsibilities.
President Tinubu made the remarks on Monday during a prayer session in Abuja to commemorate the first anniversary of Buhari’s passing. He was represented at the event by Vice President Kashim Shettima.
According to the President, Buhari devoted his life to the service of Nigeria, leaving behind a legacy defined by integrity, courage and unwavering commitment to national development.
“President Buhari gave everything he had to this country, and he gave it without reservation. He served with courage, conviction and patriotism that never asked what the nation could return to him,” Tinubu said.
He noted that Buhari’s legacy extended beyond the public offices he occupied, stressing that his life reflected consistency between his words, principles and personal conduct.
The President recalled their years of political partnership, describing the late leader as a committed ally in the pursuit of a progressive and prosperous Nigeria.
He said Buhari’s evolution from a military Head of State to a democratic leader and defender of constitutional governance demonstrated his dedication to nation-building.
President Tinubu further observed that even after leaving office, Buhari continued to enjoy the trust and respect of millions of Nigerians.
He said such enduring public confidence could only be earned through years of discipline, integrity and faithful service.
“When he laid down the burden of leadership, the trust of ordinary Nigerians did not depart from him. That trust was earned through a lifetime of consistency between what he believed and how he lived,” he stated.
The President urged Buhari’s associates, political followers and all Nigerians to preserve his legacy by reflecting his values in both public service and personal conduct.
“Our duty, as his friends and associates, is to carry forward the inheritance he left behind—honesty, simplicity and self-discipline,” he added.
Tinubu maintained that the greatest tribute Nigerians could pay the late former President was to uphold the principles of patriotism, accountability and integrity that characterised his leadership.
He also reassured former First Lady Aisha Buhari and members of the Buhari family of the Federal Government’s continued support.
Earlier, former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon (retd.), said the outpouring of tributes following Buhari’s death reflected the immense respect and admiration he commanded both within and outside Nigeria.
Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Zulum, described the gathering as an opportunity to reflect on Buhari’s enduring values and leadership style, noting that his principles continue to influence governance in Borno State and beyond.
Former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha, said Buhari’s life was marked by sacrifice, dedication and selfless service to the nation.
He announced the decision of Buhari’s family and associates to establish a foundation in honour of the late President to preserve his ideals and promote the values he stood for.
Representing Katsina State Governor, Deputy Governor Farouk Lawal Jobe thanked President Tinubu for his support to the Buhari family and Katsina State during the late President’s burial and for efforts aimed at preserving his legacy.
The event featured tributes from former aides, associates and friends of the late President, while special prayers for the repose of his soul were offered by Archbishop Emeritus of Abuja, John Cardinal Onaiyekan, the Imam of the National Mosque, Sheikh Abdulkadir Al-Salman Sholagberu, and other religious and traditional leaders.
The ceremony concluded with the presentation of a book of tributes in honour of the late former President by Vice President Kashim Shettima.
Tinubu Urges Leaders to Emulate Buhari’s Integrity, Simplicity at First Anniversary Prayer Session
