Former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari’s passing at the age of 82 has elicited a wave of tributes from across the nation and beyond. Among those mourning his demise is Festus Keyamo, Buhari’s former Minister of State for Labour and Employment and the current Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development. Keyamo, who regarded Buhari as his boss, leader, and mentor, expressed profound sadness and hailed the former president as a man of unparalleled integrity and frugality, leaving behind a legacy of selfless service to Nigeria.
Buhari’s distinguished career in public service spanned several decades, marked by impactful stints as Military Head of State from 1984 to 1985 and later as the democratically elected President from 2015 to 2023. This dual occupancy of Nigeria’s highest office placed him in a unique historical position, shared only with former President Olusegun Obasanjo. Keyamo emphasized this rare feat, highlighting Buhari’s significant contribution to the shaping of modern Nigeria. He further emphasized Buhari’s unwavering dedication to national unity and progress, qualities that Keyamo believes set him apart as a true statesman.
Keyamo’s tribute painted a picture of a leader deeply committed to ethical governance and personal austerity. He praised Buhari’s aversion to corruption, describing him as someone who lived a frugal life, devoid of ostentation or the pursuit of ill-gotten wealth. This characteristic, according to Keyamo, stood in stark contrast to the prevalent trend of self-enrichment often associated with public office. Buhari’s simple lifestyle and commitment to honesty, Keyamo argued, served as an inspiring example for future generations of Nigerian leaders. Keyamo’s words portrayed Buhari as a leader who recognized his mortality and lived his life accordingly, always conscious of his ultimate accountability to a higher power.
Beyond the public persona, Keyamo’s tribute also offered a glimpse into Buhari’s personal life, acknowledging the profound loss felt by his widow, children, and extended family. He extended his heartfelt condolences to them, praying for God’s grace and the strength to bear the irreplaceable loss. The statement also acknowledged the collective grief of the entire nation, recognizing Buhari as a great patriot and nationalist whose absence would be deeply felt. Keyamo’s words resonated with the sentiment of national loss, emphasizing the void left by a leader who dedicated his life to the service of his country.
Keyamo’s eulogy extended beyond mere praise, encapsulating the essence of Buhari’s leadership philosophy and his unwavering commitment to Nigeria’s progress. He painted a portrait of a leader who consistently placed the nation’s interests above personal gain, a quality that Keyamo believed defined Buhari’s legacy. His tribute was not just a farewell to a former president but a testament to a life dedicated to public service, marked by integrity, frugality, and a deep love for the nation.
The closing words of Keyamo’s tribute, “Adieu, Mr. President,” encapsulated the profound respect and admiration he held for Buhari. This simple farewell echoed the sentiments of a nation mourning the loss of a leader who, despite facing numerous challenges, remained steadfast in his commitment to Nigeria. Keyamo’s tribute serves as a powerful reminder of Buhari’s enduring legacy and his lasting impact on the political landscape of Nigeria, a legacy defined by his unwavering principles and dedication to serving his people.
