The Nigerian Senate convened on Wednesday to pay tribute to the late former President, General Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away on July 13, 2025, after a period of illness. The Senate Leader, Opeyemi Bamidele, sponsored a motion acknowledging Buhari’s significant contributions to Nigeria’s development, both as a military leader and a two-term democratically elected president. The motion underscored the importance of remembering Buhari’s legacy and urged President Bola Tinubu to immortalize him by naming a national monument in his honor. This act would serve as a lasting testament to Buhari’s impact on the nation and inspire future generations of leaders. The Senate’s tribute was a solemn occasion marked by a minute of silence and the opening of a condolence register for members and visitors to express their respects.
Bamidele’s presentation highlighted Buhari’s dual roles as a gallant soldier and a committed patriot, emphasizing the enduring mark he left on Nigeria’s political landscape. He characterized Buhari’s life as one of fulfillment, marked by a distinguished military career culminating in the highest rank and followed by two terms as a democratically elected president. Bamidele reminded the Senate of the ephemeral nature of life, prompting reflection on Buhari’s contributions and the legacy he leaves behind. The Senate commended the Federal Government for organizing a befitting state funeral, recognizing the importance of honoring a leader who had dedicated his life to serving the nation. This commendation underscored the government’s commitment to acknowledging Buhari’s significant role in shaping Nigeria’s history.
Senator Abdulaziz Yari from Zamfara State contributed to the tribute by emphasizing the importance of using one’s life to make a positive impact on the world. He urged his colleagues to strive for good deeds for their country, families, and the responsibilities entrusted to them. Yari’s words resonated with the theme of service and the importance of contributing to the greater good, mirroring the dedication exemplified by Buhari throughout his life. His remarks served as a poignant reminder of the importance of leaving a positive legacy, regardless of one’s position or background.
Former Senate President Ahmad Lawan joined the chorus of voices praising Buhari, highlighting his unique place in Nigerian political history. Lawan expressed his admiration for President Tinubu’s efforts in ensuring a befitting state burial for the former president, underscoring the respect and honor accorded to Buhari in his final moments. He also indicated his intention to share further reflections on Buhari’s leadership, drawing from his personal experience working closely with the late president. This promised a more in-depth perspective on Buhari’s leadership style and the impact he had on those who served under him.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio echoed the sentiments of his colleagues, commending President Tinubu for orchestrating a respectful and honorable farewell for Buhari. He urged Nigerians to continue praying for the repose of Buhari’s soul, emphasizing the spiritual dimension of mourning and remembrance. Akpabio highlighted the poignant realization that material possessions and worldly titles hold no meaning in death, leaving only memories and the impact one has made on others. He emphasized Buhari’s compassion, a quality often overlooked amidst discussions of his integrity, suggesting a more nuanced and multifaceted personality than often portrayed.
The Senate’s tribute to Buhari painted a picture of a complex leader who dedicated his life to serving Nigeria in various capacities. From his military service to his presidency, Buhari’s life was intertwined with the nation’s history. The Senate’s call to immortalize him through a national monument reflects a desire to ensure that his contributions are not forgotten and that future generations can learn from his life and legacy. The tributes also highlighted the importance of service, compassion, and leaving a positive impact on the world, values that Buhari, in his own way, embodied throughout his life. The Senate’s commemoration served not only as a farewell to a former leader but also as a call to action for current and future leaders to emulate Buhari’s commitment to Nigeria.
