Late Former President Muhammadu Buhari

Tosin Kolade
Jul, Tue, 2025

Okah-Donli pays tribute to Buhari

By Tosin Kolade

Dame Julie Okah-Donli, former Director-General, National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), has described late former President Muhammadu Buhari as a principled leader who meant well for Nigeria.

Okah-Donli stated this in a condolence message issued on Tuesday in Abuja, following the death of the former President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

She said Buhari was a statesman known for his commitment to national service, both as a military Head of State and as a democratically-elected President.

“President Buhari was a man of deep conviction, disciplined leadership, and enduring integrity. His efforts in the fight against corruption and in strengthening democratic institutions marked a significant chapter in Nigeria’s history,” she said.

Okah-Donli, who served as NAPTIP Director-General from 2017 to 2020, expressed appreciation for the support his administration provided in the fight against human trafficking.

“I recall with gratitude the consistent backing we received during his tenure, especially in promoting justice for the vulnerable and the exploited,” she said.

The former NAPTIP boss extended her condolences to the Buhari family, the Federal Government, and all Nigerians.

“May Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala) forgive his shortcomings, overlook his imperfections, and reward his service to humanity and to our great nation. May the Most Merciful grant him eternal peace. Ameen,” she added.

Okah-Donli also served as Chairperson of the Board of Trustees of the UN Voluntary Trust Fund for Victims of Trafficking. (NAN)

Edited by Mark Longyen

Saint Lucia’s PM mourns Buhari, extends condolences to Nigeria

Muhyideen Jimoh
Jul, Tue, 2025

Foreign

Saint Lucia’s PM mourns Buhari, extends condolences to Nigeria

By Muhyideen Jimoh
‎
‎Saint Lucia’s Prime Minister, Philip Pierre, has extended heartfelt condolences to Nigeria on the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari.

Pierre’s condolence message was issued on Monday and made available to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).

“On behalf of the Government and People of Saint Lucia, I express condolences to the Federal Republic of Nigeria on the loss of His Excellency Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR.”

He commended Buhari’s disciplined leadership and his commitment to national sovereignty and integrity in public service.

“His leadership shaped crucial periods in Nigeria’s history, guided by firm belief in national sovereignty, public integrity, and disciplined governance,” the Prime Minister said.

Pierre expressed Saint Lucia’s solidarity with Nigeria during this time of national mourning and reflection.

“At this moment of reflection, Saint Lucia stands in solemn solidarity with our African brothers and sisters in Nigeria,” Pierre said.

He acknowledged Nigeria’s democratic resilience and Buhari’s role in strengthening its political institutions.

“We honour not only a past leader’s service but also Nigeria’s enduring democratic spirit, influencing Africa’s path,” he added.

The Prime Minister extended sympathy to the Buhari family, President Bola Tinubu, the people of Katsina State, and the Daura Emirate.

Former President Buhari died on Sunday in a London hospital after a prolonged illness.

Pierre reaffirmed Saint Lucia’s commitment to stronger bilateral relations with Nigeria based on mutual respect and shared principles.

NAN reports that President Tinubu recently made a historic state visit to Saint Lucia to boost South-South cooperation. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo