By Rafiyat Sadiq
The family of the late former President Muhammadu Buhari has expressed deep appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, top government officials, traditional rulers, and citizens across Nigeria and beyond for their overwhelming support before and after his passing.
The message was shared in a statement posted by presidential aide Garba Shehu on his official X account on Monday. The statement was issued on behalf of the family by Malam Mamman Daura, the most senior member of the Buhari family.
Presidency Commended for National Honour
The family thanked President Tinubu and the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for their leadership and compassion.
“It is truly comforting to receive such support from the President and the Vice President, Kashim Shettima, who visited both the United Kingdom and Daura during the mourning period,” the family stated.
They also appreciated the president’s decision to declare a public holiday and rename the University of Maiduguri in honour of the late president. “These thoughtful gestures helped us face this painful loss with courage,” Mamman Daura said.
Global Leaders Show Solidarity
The family acknowledged support from world leaders who sent condolences through visits, letters, and phone calls.
These included King Charles III of England, UN Secretary-General António Guterres, Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed, the Chairperson of the African Union, ECOWAS Heads of State, and Nigeria’s former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar.
Appreciation to Nigerian Political Leaders
Gratitude was also extended to Vice President Shettima and his wife, as well as many state governors and former governors who paid condolence visits in the UK and Daura.
Notable among them were Governors Dikko Umar Radda of Katsina, Babagana Umara Zulum of Borno, and former Anambra Governor Peter Obi.
The family also acknowledged former Vice Presidents Atiku Abubakar, Namadi Sambo, Yemi Osinbajo, and Ambassador Babagana Kingibe for their kind words and support.
Legislative leaders including Senate President Godswill Akpabio, House Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, and members of the National and State Assemblies were also appreciated.
Former Officials and Cabinet Members Recognized
The family expressed thanks to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume; his predecessor, Boss Mustapha; the Chief of Staff, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila; and former Chief of Staff, Prof. Ibrahim Gambari.
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Also mentioned were former and serving members of the federal cabinet who participated in the burial events and offered comforting words.
Traditional Rulers and Religious Leaders Honoured
Traditional leaders who paid tributes included the Sultan of Sokoto, Shehu of Borno, Emir of Gwandu, and the host Emirs of Katsina and Daura. Other emirs and chiefs from different parts of Nigeria and neighbouring countries were equally recognised for their personal visits and messages.
The family also expressed gratitude to religious leaders from Islamic, Christian, and other faiths, as well as community leaders, women’s groups, youth organisations, and politicians across party lines.
Acknowledgement was given to past and present leaders of Nigeria’s military, police, intelligence services, civil servants, civil society organisations, and members of the media who participated in the mourning.
Special recognition was given to Nigerian business leaders who visited Daura to condole with the family. These included Alhaji Aliko Dangote, Abdul Samad Rabiu, and Alhaji Muhammadu Indimi.
“The death of Muhammadu Buhari is an irreparable loss, but the love and unity shown by Nigerians and friends around the world have helped us find strength in our grief,” the statement concluded.
Rafiyat Sadiq is a political, justice, and human rights reporter with Pinnacle Daily, known for fearless reporting and impactful storytelling. At Pinnacle Daily, she brings clarity and depth to issues shaping governance, democracy, and the protection of citizens’ rights.