President Bola Tinubu has said the legacy of former President Muhammadu Buhari, built on integrity, discipline and selfless service, will continue to inspire Nigerians for generations, urging citizens to uphold the values the late leader stood for throughout his life.
Tinubu made the remarks on Monday during a memorial event in Abuja to mark one year since Buhari’s passing. The President was represented at the ceremony by Vice President Kashim Shettima, who delivered his tribute before family members, government officials, political associates and other dignitaries gathered to honour the late former president.
Describing Buhari as a patriot who dedicated his life to the service of Nigeria, Tinubu said the former leader’s contributions to the country would not be forgotten.
“We are gathered here today, one year after the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, because the life he lived is not a life this nation is capable of forgetting,” the President said in his message.
He noted that Buhari remained respected by many Nigerians even after leaving office because of the principles that guided his public life.
According to Tinubu, Buhari’s legacy was not built on the search for praise or personal recognition but on integrity, discipline, honesty and commitment to national service.
Reflecting on their political journey, the President recalled that both men worked together with other political leaders to build a platform that promised a better future for Nigerians.
He said they shared a common vision of creating a peaceful, united and prosperous country where government would be accountable to the people.
Tinubu praised Buhari’s commitment to Nigeria, saying the late president gave everything he had in service to the nation without holding anything back.
“He gave everything he had to this country, and he gave it without reservation,” the President said.
He also described Buhari as a courageous leader whose patriotism and dedication to constitutional democracy remained strong throughout his years in public office.
According to him, Buhari belonged to a select group of Nigerians who had the rare privilege of serving the country both as a military Head of State and later as a democratically elected President.
Tinubu said the former president’s long career in public service reflected his determination to contribute to Nigeria’s growth despite the many challenges facing the country.
He stressed that Buhari’s greatest achievements were not measured by public applause but by his character, integrity and commitment to serving the people.
The President urged Nigerians, especially those who worked closely with Buhari, to preserve and promote the values he represented.
“Our duty, as his friends, as his mentees, and as his associates, is to carry forward the inheritance he left us: honesty, simplicity, and self-discipline,” he said.
Tinubu also extended his sympathy to Buhari’s family, assuring them that the Federal Government would continue to support them and honour the memory of the late former president.
He acknowledged the sacrifices made by Buhari’s family during his many years in public office and thanked them for standing by him throughout his career.
The memorial service formed part of activities organised to commemorate the first anniversary of Buhari’s death. Speakers at the event reflected on his life, leadership and contributions to national development.
Several former ministers, political associates and close friends of the late president also shared personal experiences, describing him as a disciplined, humble and principled leader.
Muhammadu Buhari first served as Nigeria’s military Head of State from January 1984 to August 1985 before returning to power through democratic elections in 2015. After several unsuccessful attempts at the presidency, he defeated the incumbent president to become Nigeria’s elected leader and was re-elected for a second term in 2019.
His administration focused on three major priorities: improving security, fighting corruption and reviving the economy. While supporters praised his anti-corruption efforts, investment in infrastructure and agricultural programs, his government also faced criticism over worsening insecurity, economic hardship, unemployment and rising inflation.
Despite the mixed public assessment of his administration, Buhari maintained a reputation among many supporters for living a modest lifestyle and promoting discipline in public office.
Since his death one year ago, political leaders across party lines have continued to pay tribute to his life and service, describing him as one of the country’s most influential political figures.
Monday’s memorial was another opportunity for national leaders to reflect on his contributions and encourage Nigerians to build on the principles they believe he represented.
Tinubu said the best way to honour Buhari’s memory was not merely through speeches or ceremonies but by embracing the values of honesty, discipline and selfless service in both public and private life.
He expressed confidence that the former president’s example would continue to inspire future generations of Nigerians and strengthen the country’s democratic journey.