President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has praised Katsina State Governor Dikko Umaru Radda for organizing a befitting state funeral for the late President Muhammadu Buhari within just 48 hours. The effort, coordinated alongside the Secretary to the Government of the Federation and an inter-ministerial committee, earned commendation during a special Federal Executive Council (FEC) session held Thursday at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
Speaking at the solemn gathering, President Tinubu described Buhari as a selfless patriot who devoted his life to the service of Nigeria—not for praise, but out of sincere love for the nation. “He was a man of integrity and action,” Tinubu said.
Highlighting Governor Radda’s role, the president applauded the governor’s swift coordination with federal authorities and his unwavering support to the Buhari family during the mourning period.
As a mark of honour, Tinubu announced that the University of Maiduguri will now be renamed Muhammadu Buhari University, recognizing the former president’s enduring legacy.
Yusuf Buhari, son of the late leader, delivered an emotional vote of thanks. He expressed deep appreciation to President Tinubu, the federal government, security agencies, and millions of Nigerians for their support and prayers during the period of grief. Special gratitude was extended to Governors Dikko Radda and Babagana Zulum of Borno State for their support from the announcement of the death to the final burial rites.
The FEC session featured powerful tributes from national leaders. Senate President Godswill Akpabio described Buhari as a humble leader who walked a difficult path with honour. Speaker of the House, Tajudeen Abbas, called him a “guardian of integrity” and a true nationalist.
The Head of Civil Service, Didi Walson-Jack, applauded Buhari’s reforms and compassion for public servants. Governors and ministers, including Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, Dele Alake, Dr. Ali Pate, Dave Umahi, Imaan Suleiman-Ibrahim, Atiku Bagudu, and Festus Keyamo shared personal reflections, celebrating Buhari’s unwavering commitment to Nigeria’s unity and progress.
