The family of the late President Muhammadu Buhari expressed profound gratitude for the immense outpouring of support and condolences received from across Nigeria and the globe following his passing. In a heartfelt statement, Malam Mamman Daura, the most senior member of the Buhari family, conveyed the family’s deep appreciation to President Bola Tinubu, First Lady Senator Remi Tinubu, and all Nigerians for their comforting words and gestures during this difficult time. The family acknowledged the significant impact of President Tinubu’s decision to declare a public holiday and rename the University of Maiduguri in honor of the late President, emphasizing these actions as a testament to his respect and admiration for Buhari’s legacy. The statement served as a poignant expression of the family’s solace in the face of their irreparable loss, finding strength in the collective empathy and kindness extended to them.
The Buhari family also extended their sincere gratitude to world leaders who offered their condolences, highlighting the special acknowledgments received from King Charles III of England, the United Nations Secretary-General, the African Union Chairman, and the ECOWAS Heads of State and Government. The family recognized these expressions of sympathy from the international community as a reflection of the respect and esteem in which President Buhari was held globally. These messages, whether conveyed in person, through representatives, or via letters and phone calls, resonated deeply with the family, providing comfort and reassurance during their period of mourning. The global response underscored Buhari’s stature as a prominent figure on the world stage and demonstrated the impact of his leadership beyond Nigeria’s borders.
Within Nigeria, the family acknowledged the condolences offered by numerous dignitaries, including Vice President Kashim Shettima and his wife, state governors, former political leaders, and members of the National and State Assemblies. They specifically thanked the governors of Katsina, Borno, Adamawa, Kano, Kwara, Lagos, Kaduna, Imo, Nassarawa, Bauchi, Sokoto, and Kebbi states, along with several former governors, including Dr. Peter Obi, for their compassionate words and presence. The family also expressed gratitude to former Vice Presidents Atiku Abubakar, Namadi Sambo, Yemi Osinbajo, and Babagana Kingibe, as well as Senate President Godswill Akpabio, House Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, and Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, for their expressions of sympathy and support. This widespread acknowledgement of Buhari’s passing from across the political spectrum emphasized his influence and the impact he had on the nation’s political landscape.
The family’s appreciation extended to senior government officials, including the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, the Chief of Staff, former and serving cabinet members, and the leadership of the nation’s security and intelligence agencies. They also recognized the significant role played by traditional rulers, especially the Sultan of Sokoto, the Shehu of Borno, the Emir of Gwandu, and the Emirs of Katsina and Daura, as well as other emirs and chiefs from across Nigeria and neighboring countries. The outpouring of support from religious leaders of various faiths, community leaders, women, youth, and politicians further underscored the broad reach of Buhari’s influence and the unifying effect of his passing on the nation.
The Buhari family also acknowledged the contributions of the civil servants, both past and present, who played a role in the events surrounding the late President’s passing and burial. They also expressed gratitude to community groups, civil society organizations, and the media for their role in disseminating information and offering support to the family during this period. The family’s recognition of the crucial role of business leaders, mentioning specifically Alhaji Aliko Dangote, Abdul Samad Isyaka Rabi’u, Alhaji Muhammadu Indimi, Alhaji Dahiru Mangal, Kola Adesina, and Nasiru Danu, further emphasized the wide-ranging impact of Buhari’s leadership and the respect he commanded from diverse sectors of Nigerian society.
In closing, the Buhari family reiterated their deep gratitude for the overwhelming support received from all corners of Nigeria and the international community. They expressed their appreciation for the visits, condolence messages, and prayers offered for the late President, emphasizing the comforting effect of this collective expression of sympathy. The family acknowledged the role these expressions of support played in helping them cope with their grief, describing it as a source of strength and resilience in the face of their profound loss. Their closing remarks served as a testament to the unifying power of grief and the strength that can be found in collective mourning, reflecting the profound impact President Buhari had on the nation and its people.
