By Awwal Umar, Kontagora Nigeria was thrown into mourning today following the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari (GCFR),...
Nigeria was thrown into mourning today following the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari (GCFR), who passed away early Sunday at the age of 83. As tributes pour in from across the country and beyond, one of the most heartfelt came from his longtime friend and fellow former Head of State, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (rtd.).
In a statement released Sunday afternoon, General Babangida described Buhari as a “brother, friend, and patriot,” whose life was marked by “discipline, integrity, and deep love for country.”
“It is with a deeply heavy heart that I received the news of the passing of my friend, my brother, my course mate, and a fellow soldier in the journey of nationhood,” Babangida wrote.
Recounting their first meeting in 1962 at the Nigerian Military Training College in Kaduna, Babangida noted that even in those early years, Buhari stood out for his calm resolve and strong principles.
“Through the years, we shared trenches and trials, dreams and disappointments, victories and moments of reflection,” he said. “Our bond was forged not only by military training, but by a shared commitment to the ideals of service, discipline, and love for country.”
The former military ruler emphasized Buhari’s unwavering commitment to public service, both in uniform and as a civilian leader. Buhari served as Nigeria’s Head of State from 1983 to 1985, and later as democratically elected President from 2015 to 2023.
“In all, Buhari remained consistent in his belief in integrity, order, and the dignity of public office. He served Nigeria with a deep sense of responsibility, even when the road was lonely or misunderstood,” Babangida said.
Beyond his public persona, Babangida described Buhari as a man of faith and humility, who carried himself with grace and sincerity.
“We may not have agreed on everything — as brothers often don’t — but I never once doubted his sincerity or his patriotism,” he added.
He concluded his tribute with a message of condolence to the late President’s family and the nation: “To his beloved wife Aisha, his children, grandchildren, and the nation he loved and served — I extend my deepest condolences. May Allah (SWT) forgive his shortcomings and grant him Aljannatul Firdaus.”
President Buhari’s death marks the end of a significant chapter in Nigeria’s post-independence history. As Nigerians reflect on his legacy, Babangida’s tribute stands as a poignant reminder of a lifelong dedication to service, and a deep bond between two soldiers who once dreamed of a better Nigeria.
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