World leaders, international organisations, and prominent personalities have paid glowing tributes to Nigeria’s former President, Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away at the age of 82.
The late President, who served as Nigeria’s leader both as a military head of state and a democratically elected president, is remembered as a man of discipline, integrity, and firm belief in national unity and regional cooperation.
In a statement issued by ECOWAS, the Commission’s President, Dr Omar Touray, described Buhari as “a distinguished statesman” whose efforts left “a lasting imprint on regional cooperation and political development.”
“It is with deep sorrow that the world learnt of the passing of His Excellency General Muhammadu Buhari, former President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” ECOWAS said.
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, to His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and to the entire Nigerian people.”
ECOWAS commended Buhari’s contribution to democratic consolidation and integration across West Africa, adding: “ECOWAS salutes the memory of this distinguished statesman whose invaluable contributions greatly advanced democracy and regional integration in West Africa and across the African continent.”
The United States also expressed its condolences. In a statement released by its diplomatic mission in Nigeria, the US acknowledged Buhari’s role in restoring credibility to public service.
“The US Mission in Nigeria extends our deepest condolences to the people of Nigeria on the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari, a leader whose life was defined by service, discipline, and a commitment to restore integrity to public office,” The statement read.
“His legacy includes his efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s democratic institutions. Our thoughts are with his family, loved ones, and all Nigerians who mourn this loss.”
Similarly, the African Union Commission, through its Chairperson, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, described Buhari as “a principled and resolute leader” who championed peace, good governance, and African unity.
“On behalf of the African Union Commission and the wider African Union family, the Chairperson conveys his deepest condolences to the Government and people of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and to the bereaved family of the late President Buhari during this period of national mourning and collective grief,” the AU stated.
“President Buhari will be remembered as a principled and resolute leader who served Nigeria with honour and conviction. Throughout his tenure, he remained a committed Pan-Africanist—an advocate for regional integration, good governance, and African-led solutions to the continent’s pressing challenges,” it added.
The Chinese Embassy in Nigeria also paid tribute, describing Buhari as “a resolute leader whose unwavering dedication to Nigeria’s unity and progress leaves an enduring legacy.”
“His pivotal contributions to advancing China-Nigeria relations will forever remain etched in our shared history. Our thoughts are with his family and the Nigerian people,” the Embassy noted.
Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, in a post on X, wrote: “On behalf of the Government and People of Ethiopia, I extend sincere condolences to the family of former President Muhammadu Buhari and to the people and Government of Nigeria. Our thoughts are with you during this time of mourning.”
Sierra Leone’s President and current ECOWAS Chairman, Julius Maada Bio, also shared his condolences on X. “I am deeply saddened to hear about the passing of President Muhammadu Buhari, the former President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
“On behalf of the people of the Republic of Sierra Leone, I want to express our heartfelt condolences to his family, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and to the people of Nigeria during this incredibly difficult time. This is truly a devastating loss, and our thoughts are with you all.”
Renowned Islamic scholar Mufti Menk paid an emotional tribute, recalling Buhari’s deep religious commitment and integrity.
“The passing away of a legend, the former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari, may Allah have mercy on his soul, brought me to tears. He was an upright man who never missed his prayers and a very disciplined believer who served his people to the best of his ability,” he stated.
“His name was synonymous with integrity. He was definitely one of those who made me develop a much better perception of Nigerians as a people. May Allah Almighty forgive your shortcomings and grant you the highest ranks of Jannah. Aameen. May Allah Almighty make it easy for his family, friends, and the nation of Nigeria.”
Director-General of the World Trade Organisation and former Nigerian Minister of Finance, Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, shared her shock at the news.
“Unbelievable! I did not know just how ill President Buhari was, and minutes after sending my get-well wishes, I have just learned that he passed away. I am so very sad.
“May the soul of H.E. Buhari rest in perfect peace. My deepest condolences to the entire Buhari family and his close aides and associates,” she said.
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