Buhari with Tinubu

Tinubu hails Buhari’s legacy of integrity, service, vows to build upon foundations at book launch

President Bola Tinubu has hailed the virtues of humility, integrity and dedicated service to the nation by late President Muhammadu Buhari.

President Tinubu, who spoke at a book launch in honour of the late President said, “We gather to honour the memory of the late President Muhammadu Buhari—a leader defined by quiet strength, unwavering discipline, and a profound grace found in service. On this occasion of launching his biography, I convey the nation’s deepest respect and affection to Her Excellency, Aisha Buhari, her children, and grandchildren.”

President said “may you be comforted by the prayers and gratitude of Nigeria, and by the knowledge that the Buhari name will forever stand as a beacon for noble public service.”

According to him, “A true measure of leadership is not found in titles or trappings of office, but in what remains when the authority ends. President Buhari left us a legacy of unshakable integrity, a spartan personal discipline, and the steadfast conviction that public office is a sacred trust, not a prize.

“I stand before you not only as President, but as a brother, friend, and political partner who walked a defining path with him. Together, we forged a broad national coalition, campaigned with purpose across this country, and made history in 2015 by demonstrating the power of the people’s will to change course. That coalition, born in 2014, now stands as Africa’s fastest-growing political party—a testament to the enduring vision we shared.”

He said this biography “we present today serves our collective memory. It recounts achievements and acknowledges shortcomings, as any honest history must. Its value lies not in praise alone, but in offering lessons so that future leaders may learn, not merely repeat slogans.”

In that reflective spirit, he said, “let us recall the enduring pillars of President Buhari’s legacy:

“First, Humility. He embraced simplicity over spectacle, believing a leader must first master himself to effectively steward a nation. His modest life was his strength, and he carried that dignified austerity into the highest office.

“Second, Security. He understood that safety is the bedrock of citizenship and prosperity. He championed critical investments in our defence platforms and personnel, driving reforms to strengthen our armed services for the long term, recognising that security means protecting both the state and its people.

“Third, Vision. He was committed to long-term national restoration—building bridges, reviving railways, constructing roads, modernising airports, and renewing vital infrastructure with an eye on maintenance and sustainability.

“Fourth, Social Justice. He held a firm belief in targeted social investments to lift the poor and vulnerable, ensuring they were not left behind by the state.”

According to him, “These are the pillars he erected. Yet, a legacy only lives if those who follow choose to continue the work. That is my duty, and our collective national responsibility.”

He said President Buhari loved Nigeria with a consistent and steady devotion, honouring his oath through every decision, adding that, “It is why even his critics frequently conceded his honesty.”

President said, “Our shared political journey taught me that cooperation across differences is not a weakness, but wisdom. Nation-building requires that we compete vigorously, then govern responsibly. President Buhari embodied the principle that the contest ends when the oath begins. In his memory, let us keep our politics honourable and our governance focused on results.

“Nigeria transcends any single ethnicity, language, faith, or party. This book reminds us that one life, lived with restraint and responsibility, can inspire a nation. True progress is the work not of leaders alone, but of every citizen.”

He commended “the author for enriching our history, for gathering facts and testimonies, and for refusing to simplify a complex life into mere soundbites.

“May this volume travel far—into our classrooms, libraries, and onto the desks of young Nigerians as they ponder what kind of leaders they aspire to be.

“To my dear brother, President Muhammadu Buhari: though you have departed, your impact remains. We will honour you not just in words, but by building upon your legacy with discipline, compassion, and unwavering resolve.

“May Almighty Allah grant him mercy and Aljannah Firdaus, and comfort his family. May He bless Nigeria with unity, wisdom, and enduring peace. Through our diligent efforts and by God’s grace, Nigeria will endure, prevail, and prosper.”

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