President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has pledged to sustain the legacies of former President Muhammadu Buhari, describing them as rooted in discipline, integrity, purposeful leadership, and the principle that public office is a trust.
The President made the pledge on Monday in Abuja at the State House Conference Centre during the unveiling of the book From Soldier to Statesman – The Legacy of Muhammadu Buhari, authored by Dr Charles Omole.
President Tinubu said the book provides Nigerians with an opportunity to reflect on the leadership journey of the late former President and stressed that the greatest tribute to Buhari is the continuation of the ideals he stood for.
He said Buhari’s legacy would only retain meaning if succeeding leaders choose to build on what he started, adding that sustaining those legacies was his responsibility as President.
The President recalled his long political association with Buhari, describing him as a friend and political ally with whom he shared a defining journey that culminated in the 2015 general election victory, which produced Nigeria’s first opposition-led democratic transition.
He noted that the coalition formed ahead of the 2015 elections reshaped Nigeria’s political landscape and remains one of the fastest-growing political movements in Africa.
President Tinubu also called for issue-based politics and responsible governance, stressing that political competition should end after elections, giving way to governance focused on results.
The President commended the author, Dr Omole, for the scholarly work, noting that the book presents both the achievements and shortcomings of the former President.
Governor of Katsina State, Dikko Umaru Radda, praised President Tinubu for his support to the Buhari family and Katsina State following the former President’s death, describing Buhari as a disciplined and patriotic leader.
Dr Omole said the biography chronicles Buhari’s life from birth to death, based on extensive research and interviews with individuals who closely interacted with him.
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Former Service Chiefs and heads of security agencies who served under Buhari testified to his discipline, integrity and commitment to national service.
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brigadier General Buba Marwa (Rtd), described Buhari as a leader who valued discipline and encouraged his subordinates.
Former Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Isiaka Amao, said Buhari understood the balance between military authority and democratic governance.
Former Director-General of the Department of State Services, Yusuf Magaji Bichi, said Buhari upheld democratic principles and would not compromise electoral integrity.
Speaking on behalf of the Buhari family, Hadiza Nana Buhari thanked President Tinubu for his support, including the completion of the National Armed Forces PTSD Centre in Abuja, initiated under Buhari’s administration.
The event was attended by the President of The Gambia, Adama Barrow; First Lady Oluremi Tinubu; several state governors; traditional rulers; senior government officials; and members of the Buhari family.
