News Agency of Nigeria
Buhari: Moroccan King commiserates with Tinubu

Buhari: Moroccan King commiserates with Tinubu

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By Joshua Olomu

King Mohammed VI of Morocco has extended condolences to President Bola Tinubu over the death of former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari.

The monarch in a statement expressed  sympathy to  Tinubu, the late president’s  family, and the people of Nigeria, describing the loss as a ‘sad occurrence’.

He  described Buhari as an “illustrious leader who worked untiringly to serve his country’s best interests and lead his people toward further progress and prosperity.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with you and the bereaved.

“I share your grief and want you to know how much I appreciated the working sessions I had with the deceased.

“They culminated in the launch of promising development projects that have ushered a new era grounded in friendship and close cooperation between our two- sister nations,” he said.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Chioma Ugboma

Buhari’s death, great national loss- Adedoyin

Buhari’s death, great national loss- Adedoyin

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By Mufutau Ojo

Veteran journalist and former Commissioner for Information in Kwara, Alhaji Raheem Adedoyin, on Tuesday paid glowing tributes to former President Muhammadu Buhari.

Adedoyin, in a statement in Abuja on Tuesday, described the passage of the former president as a great loss to the nation.

He recalled that the former president had launched a relentless fight against corruption, aiming to revitalise the economy and national institutions.

Adedoyin also said Buhari would be remembered for his legacy of public service and impact on Nigerian politics.

” I was not a fan (in fact, I was an antagonist) of General Muhammadu Buhari when he was Nigeria’s military head of the state.

” I was in the final year at the University of Lagos when he seized power in 1984.

”I was not an activist but the ‘aluta continua’ spirit drove me to be against his regime.

” The dislike was heightened by his regime’s draconian decrees (especially Decree 4 of 1984) that resulted in the jailing of journalists.

“But by divine favour, GMB got transformed into a statesman of immense national value.

“He became a national icon for his spartan lifestyle and a folk hero,” he said.

Adedoyin, a fellow of Nigerian Guild of Editors, recalled that the late president had on two occasions congratulated him.

“I hold as a trophy President Buhari’s congratulatory messages to me on the two occasions that mattered to me in 2021.

” The first, my 60th birthday in July and the second, my election in Vienna, Austria, in September into the executive board of the International Press Institute representing Nigeria and Africa.

“My election was witnessed by a Federal Government representative sent specifically for that purpose from Nigeria,” he said.

He prayed God to grant the former president Aljanah Firdaus. (NAN)

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

Buhari: Lessons in Leadership & patriotism

Buhari: Lessons in Leadership & patriotism

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By Ismail Abdulaziz, News Agency of Nigeria(NAN)

On July 13, retired Maj.-Gen. Muhammadu Buhari, former President of Nigeria, passed away after the mid-day prayers at a London Clinic at the ripe age of 82.

Many testimonies about his life and times indicate a man of civility, discipline and patriotism not adding his avowed principle of living a Spartan life and commitment to eradication of corruption.

President Bola Tinubu, paid a glowing tribute.

‘’Buhari was to the very core, a patriot, a soldier, a statesman; his legacy of service and sacrifice endures.

“He served Nigeria with unwavering dedication, first as a military leader from January 1984 to August 1985, and later as a democratically elected President from 2015 to 2023; duty, honour, and a deep commitment to the unity and progress of our nation defined his life.

“He stood firm through the most turbulent times, leading with quiet strength, profound integrity, and an unshakable belief in Nigeria’s potential.

“He championed discipline in public service, confronted corruption head-on, and placed the country above personal interest at every turn,’’ the president said.

Similarly, the revered Islamic scholar, Mufti Ismail Menk, said Buhari was an upright man, who never missed his prayers and a very disciplined believer who served his people to the best of his ability.

“His name was synonymous with integrity.

“He was definitely one of those who made me develop a much better perception of Nigerians as a people,’’ he said.

The U.S. Mission in Nigeria also condoled with Nigeria.

“Buhari was a leader whose life was defined by service, discipline, and a commitment to restore integrity to public office.

“His legacy includes his efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s democratic institutions,’’ it said.

The Chinese embassy in Nigeria also expressed its condolences.

‘’We mourn a resolute leader whose unwavering dedication to Nigeria’s unity and progress leaves an enduring legacy.

“His pivotal contributions to advancing China-Nigeria relations will forever remain etched in our shared history,’’ it said.

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo, who was also a former military Head of State like Buhari, said the late president was a comrade, a cool patriot, who as a soldier, played his role.

“As an administrator, he played his role as an administrator; as a statesman, he played his role as a statesman.

“At a time like this, we need the totality of the experience and what I may call statesmanship of all those who have had opportunities to run the affairs of this country to get us out of the situation we are in; he will be sorely missed; may his soul rest in perfect peace,” Obasanjo said.

Tributes have also come in from the Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali, Sierra Leone President Julius Maada Bio as well as World Trade Organisation Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala.

During his campaign in 2015, something spectacular happened.

The masses of Nigeria decided to contribute their widows’ mites for his success.

What else can a human want than the general believe in his capacity and ability to lead them to the Promised Land?

This singular act was a burden placed on him by the people to rectify the past.

Analysts say the history of Nigeria will be replete with the roles Buhari played during his three terms leading the country.

First, as a military head of state and subsequently, as a democratically elected president between 2015 and 2023.

For history to be kind to him, the testimonies of those around him during his time will shape the final options.

As an elder statesman, Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida once said: “History will be kind to you for taking a decision, but will never be kind to you for not taking a decision.”

Buhari accepted most of the mistakes he took while serving the people as exemplified in one of his statements in the course of his handing over the reign of leadership to President Tinubu.

“Whoever thought that there has been some form of injustice on him we are all humans, there is no doubt I hurt some people, and I wish they would pardon me and those who think that I have hurt them, please pardon me.”

The man that peacefully handed over power to Buhari, former President Goodluck Jonathan, has some comforting words.

‘’He will be remembered as a courageous leader, a disciplined officer, and a committed public servant who made considerable contributions towards the peace and progress of our dear nation.

“The late President was deeply admired across the strata of society for his decency, integrity and exemplary life of service.

“As a leader, he was selfless in his commitment to his duty and served the country with character and a deep sense of patriotism.

‘’In his passing, Nigeria has lost one of its foremost leaders, and I have lost a respected colleague and elder.

“His legacy will continue to endure in the hearts of all who value sacrifice, integrity, perseverance and devotion to national ethos,’’ Jonathan said.

Buhari was born on Dec. 17, 1942 in Daura, Katsina State to Adamu and Zulaiha Buhari.

He was raised by his mother, following the death of his father when he was about four years old; he had his primary school education in Daura and Maidua from 1948 to 1952, before proceeding to Katsina Middle School in 1953.

He joined the Nigerian Army in 1961 when he was admitted to the Nigerian Military Training College, Kaduna.

Buhari underwent the Officer Cadets training at Mons Officer Cadet School in Aldershot, England from 1962 to 1963, and was commissioned as Second Lieutenant in January, 1963.

He attended the Nigerian Military College, Kaduna for the Platoon Commanders’ Course from 1963-1964

Buoyed by a deep sense of patriotism and commitment to national service, Buhari entered politics in 2003, following Nigeria’s return to a democratic dispensation in 1999.

Buhari joined the All Nigeria People’s Party (ANPP) and contested the presidential election on its platform that year.

He lost to the presidential candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) Olusegun Obasanjo.

Undeterred by defeat, Buhari continued his political struggle, and on Dec. 18, 2006, he emerged as the consensus presidential candidate of the ANPP for the 2007 elections.

His main challenger in the April 2007 presidential polls was the ruling PDP candidate, Umaru Yar’Adua.

In the election, Buhari officially scored 18 per cent of the total votes cast, against 70 per cent for Yar’Adua.

In March 2010, Buhari left the ANPP and formed, with some of his supporters, the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC).

Buhari was nominated as the CPC presidential candidate on April 16, 2011 for that year’s general election.

He ran against the then incumbent, President Jonathan of the ruling PDP, Malam Nuhu Ribadu of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), Ibrahim Shekarau of the ANPP, and other candidates of smaller parties.

Using the platform of the CPC, a newly formed party, Buhari was able to garner 12, 214, 853 votes, coming second to Goodluck Jonathan of the Peoples Democratic Party(PDP), who polled 22, 495, 197 votes.

In 2015, under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Buhari won the presidential elections of March 28, defeating the incumbent Jonathan of PDP.

He was sworn into Office as President, Commander-In Chief of the Armed Forces, and Federal Republic of Nigeria on May 29, 2015.

After eight years in office, Buhari ensured a smooth transition process; in May 29, 2023, he handed over power to President Bola Tinubu who was also elected under the platform of APC in the February, 2023 presidential election.(NANFeatures)

 

***If used, credit the writer and the News Agency of Nigeria.

Buhari left legacy of discipline, integrity- NAN MD

Buhari left legacy of discipline, integrity- NAN MD

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By Nana Musa

The late former President Muhammadu Buhari has left a legacy of discipline, integrity and patriotism, says Ali M. Ali, Managing Director the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).

 

Ali, who described the news of the death as shocking, said future generations would learn the art of patriotism and dedication to nationhood from Buhari.

 

NAN reports that Buhari died on Sunday after a protracted illness at a London clinic at the age of 82.

 

‘’Muhammadu Buhari will be remembered for his spartan and austere disposition, commitment to discipline, integrity, and the fight against corruption.

 

‘’His leadership of quiet strength with ordinary folks as the focal point. He left office with his integrity intact,’’ the NAN chief executive said.

 

Ali said that the testimonies from various associates and friends of the former president indicated a man that was highly cerebral, humble and with grassroots connections.

 

‘’From the testimonies given about him by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, former presidents Goodluck Jonathan and Olusegun Obasanjo and a host of foreign countries, showed that Buhari has touched people’s lives.

 

‘’I pray the Almighty Allah will grant him Aljannah Firdaus and the family he left behind the fortitude to bear the irreplaceable loss. I commiserate also with Nigerians, people of Katsina and Daura on this loss of a great and illustrious leader, son and democrat.’’

 

Buhari was twice elected Nigeria’s President in 2015 and 2019 and he also served as military head of state between January 1984 and August 1985.

 

The Federal Government has declared Tuesday as public holiday and the flying of the national flag at half-mast in all public places in honour of the late president.

 

Buhari’s burial will take place on Tuesday at his Daura hometown in Katsina State.(NAN)

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

Neighbours recall Buhari’s humility, generosity, discipline

Neighbours recall Buhari’s humility, generosity, discipline

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By Aminu Daura/Zubairu Idris

Some neighbours of the late President Muhammadu Buhari in Daura, Katsina state, have described him as humble, disciplined and generous in his relationship with all categories of people during his life.

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports on Monday that the neighbours were in grief since his death was announced on Sunday around 4:30pm, at a London clinic at the age of 82 years.

 

The residents told NAN in an interview that Buhari would continue to be remembered for his good character and manners.

 

The neighbours revealed that the late President’s unwavering simplicity made him to remain deeply connected to his community throughout his life.

 

A close neighbour, Alhaji Lawal Nalado, told NAN that Buhari was a leader who never allowed power to change his lifestyle or attitude towards those around him.

 

Nalado said Buhari was a humble and disciplined man, even before he rose to national prominence.

 

“He valued time, upheld daily prayers, and maintained respectful relationships with people of all ages.

 

“Buhari will be remembered for his generosity, particularly during Sallah and other festive periods.

 

“During every Sallah celebration, he distributes money, food items, rams and other essential commodities to the less privileged.

 

“He never tired of extending a helping hand to those in need,” Nalado added.

 

He noted that in spite of holding the highest office in the country, Buhari continued to live modestly and remained approachable.

 

“What stood out most about him was his integrity and fairness. He treated everyone equally and never distanced himself from his people,” he stressed.

 

Another neighbour, Alhaji Hamisu Ibrahim, praised the former president for his steadfast commitment to his religion of Islam.

 

Ibrahim added that beyond his public persona, Buhari was passionate about youth development and moral upbringing.

 

“He often advised young people to be disciplined, avoid drugs, and dedicate themselves to education and honest living.”

 

NAN also report that many residents believed that the former President’s legacies would continue to inspire future generations.

 

They expressed hope that his values of honesty, patriotism and service would not be forgotten, but passed on through leadership and community mentorship.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

Buhari was courageous, selfless, patriotic- Jonathan

Buhari was courageous, selfless, patriotic- Jonathan

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By Emmanuel Oloniruha

Former President Goodluck Jonathan has expressed sadness over the passing away of former President Muhammadu Buhari, describing him as a courageous leader who exemplified selflessness and patriotism.

Jonathan expressed these thoughts in a condolence message issued by his Special Adviser on Media, Okechukwu Eze, in Abuja on Sunday.

He affirmed that the late Buhari, who died at the age of 82 years on Sunday in London, was deeply admired across all strata of the Nigerian society because of his honesty and discipline.

Jonathan said that he received the news of Buhari’s death with a heavy heart and profound sense of national loss.

“President Buhari was a notable leader, patriot, and elder statesman who served our beloved nation as both a military head of state and president to the best of his abilities.

“He will be remembered as a courageous leader, a disciplined officer, and a committed public servant who made considerable contributions towards the peace and progress of our dear nation.

“The late president was deeply admired across all strata of society for his decency, integrity, and exemplary life of service.

“As a leader, he was selfless, committed to duty, and served the country with character and a deep sense of patriotism.

“In his passing, Nigeria has lost one of its foremost leaders, and I have lost a respected colleague and elder.

“His legacy will continue to endure in the hearts of all who value sacrifice, integrity, perseverance, and devotion to national ethos,” Jonathan said.

He, on behalf of his family and the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation, extended his “heartfelt condolences” to Buhari’s immediate family, the people of Katsina State, and all Nigerians  mourning “the great loss”.

“May Allah forgive his shortcomings, accept his good deeds, and grant him Jannatul Firdaus,” Jonathan said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

(Edited by Emmanuel Yashim)

90 years of Uncle Sam remain indelible- Buhari

90 years of Uncle Sam remain indelible- Buhari

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By Nana Musa

Former President Muhammadu Buhari has joined family, friends and the nation in celebrating the 90th birthday of Prince Samson Amuka Pemu.

 

This is contained in a statement by Buhari’s spokesperson, Malam Garba Shehu, on Thursday in Abuja.

 

Buhari said that those years of Uncle Sam would be written in gold in the annals of the nation’s history.

 

Pemu, popularly refered to as Uncle Sam, is a journalist, columnist and publisher of Vanguard newspapers and co-founder of the Punch.

 

The former president said he had a beautiful relationship with the journalist and publisher.

 

“He had used his years in the media to spread light. I owe a deep debt to him.

 

“They call him ‘Sad Sam,’ from the name of his column, but the distinctive style of his communication was spreading light.

 

“Not only did one get information from reading him but also vision, which is very valuable.”

 

The former president said Uncle Sam used his pen as broom for cleaning up the rot in society, adding that this was unparalleled.

 

“By continuing to awaken the government and society, the Vanguard newspapers, which he founded, continue to be in the forefront of service to the nation.

 

“I wish him many more years in good health and happiness, and continued service to his profession and the nation.”

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Uncle Sam will be 90 on Friday.(NAN)

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

Buhari mourns late CJN, Uwais

Buhari mourns late CJN, Uwais

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By Mufutau Ojo

Former President Muhammadu Buhari has condoled with Nigerians following the passing away of former Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Mohammed Uwais.

 

The former president said he was pained by the passing of the late CJN, “who had a distinguished career as a lawyer and a judge.”

 

A statement issued on Friday in Abuja by his spokesman, Garba Shehu, quoted Buhari as saying that Uwais made notable contributions in bringing justice closer to the people.

 

“He was admired for his compassion and justice.

 

“He made important contributions toward making Nigeria‘s democratic fabric stronger.

 

“He will always be remembered by countless people for his emphasis on a meticulous approach to law as a judge and a member of the Council of States.

 

“I extend by heartfelt condolences to his family members, relatives, and friends who are grieving his loss as we all are,” he said.

 

Uwais served as chief justice of Nigeria and as chairman of the Electoral Reforms Committee.

 

His involvement in the Nigerian judicial system began in the 1960s.

 

He held various positions within the judicial system before becoming chief justice, such as state counsel and senior state counsel.

 

He worked in the Court of Appeal for 16 years.

 

He studied at the Institute of Administration, Ahmadu Bello University, and the University of London and Inn of Court, School of Law.(NAN)

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

Buhari congratulates Gwandu Emir over supreme court victory

Buhari congratulates Gwandu Emir over supreme court victory

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By Nana Musa

Former President Muhammadu Buhari has congratulated retired Maj,-Gen. Muhammad Bashar, Emir of Gwandu over his supreme court victory.

 

 

 

 

This is contained in a statement by Buhari’s spokesperson, Garba Shehu, and made available to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday in Abuja.

 

 

 

 

NAN reports that Bashar won the 23 years legal battle between him and the deposed Emir of Gwandu, retired Major Haruna Jokolo following after a split decision by the Supreme Court on Monday.

 

 

 

 

The Supreme Court held that the deposed Emir of Gwandu did not initiate the suit via due process of law.

 

 

 

 

The court held that pre-action notice is crucial to be served on the Governor of Kebbi State, and the deposed Emir did not issue a petition to Governor before initiating the action.

 

 

 

 

Buhari applauded his friend, Iliyasu, who is also a course mate in the military, for the well deserved victory.

 

 

 

 

Shehu said in a telephone call from London, Buhari expressed his felicitations to the Emir, urging him to do more to build on the successes and achievements he attained, even as he faced a challenging distraction from the prolonged litigation.

 

“You have always worked for the betterment of your people and the nation, even under those circumstances. I hope you will continue to promote peace, happiness, and prosperity of the people in Gwandu Emirate and beyond.

 

“I thank Allah for this victory and pray for your long life and good health,” he said.(NAN)

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

Buhari mourns Niger flood victims, Kano athletes’ death

Buhari mourns Niger flood victims, Kano athletes’ death

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By Emmanuel Oloniruha

Former President Muhammadu Buhari has condoled with the victims of the Niger flood and the Kano athletes that died in an auto accident.

 

This followed the death of more than one hundred persons in flash floods that destroyed homes and displaced thousands of residents last week in Niger.

 

The death was also recorded of 22 young athletes, coaches, and officials in a ghastly auto crash in Kano state after the Ogun games in Abeokuta.

 

Buhari, in a statement by his spokesman, Garba Shehu, sympathised with the bereaved families, governments and the people of Niger and Kano states over the incident.

 

The former president said that the tragic incidents, happening in a quick sequence had left him shocked and devastated as it did many people in different parts of the world.

 

“I am deeply pained  by the loss of lives due to the floods in Niger state and the road accident in Kano state.

 

‘’The deaths are painful and devastating. Condolences to the families and friends of all those who have lost their loved ones. May the injured recover soon.”(NAN)

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

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