President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has paid glowing tribute to the late President Muhammadu Buhari, declaring that his absence will be felt by generations to come. During a special Federal Executive Council (FEC) session held Thursday, July 17, 2025, at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, Tinubu announced the renaming of the University of Maiduguri to Muhammadu Buhari University in honour of the former Nigerian leader.
The solemn event was attended by Vice President Kashim Shettima, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, ministers, governors, top government officials, and members of the Buhari family.
President Tinubu described Buhari as a patriot, a fearless defender of Nigeria’s unity, and a leader with unwavering discipline, integrity, and compassion. “His life was lived in full service to Nigeria and in fidelity to God. Though not perfect—no leader is—Buhari was a decent and honourable man whose impact will echo for generations,” Tinubu said.
The president also acknowledged Buhari’s support during the 2023 general elections. Quoting a 2022 letter by Buhari to APC governors, Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Abubakar Bagudu, affirmed that Buhari strongly backed Tinubu’s candidacy. “He rallied the governors, calling Tinubu a friend, brother, and capable leader,” Bagudu recalled.
Several ministers and dignitaries echoed similar sentiments. Senate President Akpabio praised Buhari’s simplicity and devotion to duty. Speaker Abbas described him as a man of moral clarity and modesty. Kwara State Governor and NGF Chairman Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq hailed him as a selfless servant of the nation.
Ministers Dele Alake, Dave Umahi, Ali Pate, Festus Keyamo, and Imaan Suliaman-Ibrahim also shared heartfelt tributes, highlighting Buhari’s faith, discipline, and incorruptible public service.
Yusuf Buhari, speaking on behalf of the family, expressed deep gratitude to President Tinubu and Nigerians for honouring his father, describing the late leader as “more than a politician—he was a father to many.”
The ceremony was a final curtain call for a man whose leadership defined eras—both in military and democratic governance.
