Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, Nigeria’s Honourable Minister of Foreign Affairs, has expressed profound sorrow over the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, describing it as a monumental loss not only to Nigeria but to Africa and the international community. In a moving official condolence message, Ambassador Tuggar praised Buhari as a statesman of uncommon integrity, a symbol of discipline, and a champion of Nigeria’s sovereignty and democratic ideals.
Muhammadu Buhari, who served Nigeria both as a military leader and civilian president, passed away at the age of 82 in London following a brief illness. His remains are being flown to his hometown, Daura in Katsina State, for burial in accordance with Islamic rites. His death has prompted a wave of tributes from leaders around the world.
Ambassador Tuggar highlighted Buhari’s legacy of incorruptible leadership and unwavering patriotism. He referenced Buhari’s iconic statement during his 2015 presidential inauguration: “I belong to everybody and I belong to nobody” a powerful declaration that underscored his commitment to national interest over personal or partisan gain. Tuggar noted that Buhari’s leadership was instrumental in Nigeria’s fight against corruption, terrorism, and economic instability.
Internationally, Buhari was respected for his commitment to a rules-based global order. He played a key role in resolving regional crises, including the peaceful transfer of power in The Gambia in 2016. His foreign policy decisions reflected a balanced approach driven by Nigeria’s national interest: purchasing fighter jets from the United States, importing fertilizer from Russia, and initiating strategic infrastructure deals such as the Nigeria-Morocco gas pipeline.
The Minister praised Buhari’s deep engagement with international institutions like the African Union, ECOWAS, the United Nations, and the Commonwealth, as well as his advocacy for institutional reform on the global stage. Buhari’s decades-long dedication to Africa’s liberation movements, especially in South Africa and Namibia during the 1980s, further cemented his legacy as a continental leader of principle.
Ambassador Tuggar concluded by extending heartfelt condolences on behalf of Nigeria’s diplomatic corps to Buhari’s family, the Government and people of Nigeria, and all who mourn this national loss. He prayed that Almighty Allah (SWT) grant the former president eternal peace in Aljannatul Firdaus.
The nation continues a seven-day mourning period, with flags at half-mast in honor of a leader whose enduring influence will remain a part of Nigeria’s history and future.
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