President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has described late former President Muhammadu Buhari as a leader defined by integrity, humility and a deep sense of public service, saying his legacy continues to inspire Nigeria’s democratic journey.
Tinubu spoke on Monday, December 15, 2025, at the launch of Buhari’s biography, where he paid a glowing tribute to the former president’s life, leadership style, and enduring impact on the nation’s political and governance landscape.
The President extended condolences to the Buhari family, including the former First Lady, Aisha Buhari, their children and grandchildren, assuring them of the nation’s prayers and gratitude.
He said Buhari’s name would remain synonymous with noble service for generations to come.
According to Tinubu, the true measure of leadership is not found in titles or privileges, but in the values and principles that endure long after power has been relinquished.
He noted that Buhari left behind a reputation for personal discipline, integrity, and a spartan lifestyle, anchored on the belief that public office is a trust rather than an avenue for personal gain.
Reflecting on their shared political journey, Tinubu said he stood not only as Nigeria’s President but also as a friend and political partner who worked closely with Buhari through defining moments in the country’s history.
He recalled the formation of a broad political coalition that culminated in the historic 2015 election, which for the first time saw an incumbent president defeated at the polls.
He added that the coalition formed in 2014 has since evolved into what he described as the fastest-growing political party in Africa, noting that its expansion continues.
The President said the biography provides a balanced account of Buhari’s life, acknowledging both achievements and shortcomings, and urged future leaders to draw lessons from history rather than rely on slogans.
Tinubu identified humility, security, vision and social justice as the key pillars of Buhari’s legacy.
He said the former president favoured simplicity over grandeur and believed that self-discipline was essential to effective leadership.
On security, he noted that Buhari recognised safety as the foundation of citizenship and prosperity, investing in personnel, platforms, and reforms within the armed forces.
He also highlighted Buhari’s emphasis on long-term infrastructure development, including roads, railways, airports and bridges, alongside maintenance and sustainability.
In the area of social justice, Tinubu said Buhari supported targeted social investments to protect the poor and vulnerable.
While acknowledging that a legacy is shaped by those who follow, Tinubu said continuing the foundations laid by Buhari remains his responsibility.
He described Buhari as a leader who loved Nigeria consistently and whose honesty was widely acknowledged, even by critics.
Calling for civility in politics, the President said Buhari understood that political competition must give way to responsible governance once the oath of office is taken. He urged Nigerians to keep politics honourable and governance focused on results.
Tinubu concluded by stressing that Nigeria transcends tribe, religion, language and party affiliation, noting that Buhari’s life demonstrates how restraint, responsibility and service can inspire a nation.
