World leaders, regional bodies, and international organisations have continued to pay glowing tributes to former Nigerian president Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away in London at the age of 82.
In a statement on Thursday, Mahmoud Youssouf, chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC), described Buhari as a “principled and resolute leader who served Nigeria with honour and conviction.” Youssouf hailed the late leader as a staunch Pan-Africanist and champion of regional integration. “He was a steadfast supporter of multilateral cooperation and a tireless champion of peace and stability across Africa,” he said.
Ethiopian prime minister Abiy Ahmed also conveyed his condolences, expressing solidarity with Nigeria during what he called “a profound moment of national mourning.”
Back home, president Bola Tinubu praised Buhari as a disciplined patriot whose unwavering belief in Nigeria’s unity guided his every action. Tinubu ordered that all national flags fly at half-mast for seven days in his honour.
Tributes have poured in from across the continent and beyond. Julius Maada Bio, Sierra Leone’s president and current chair of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), said: “This is truly a devastating loss. 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.”
Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, director-general of the World Trade Organisation, expressed her shock and sorrow. “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 his soul rest in perfect peace,” she said.
Omar Touray, president of ECOWAS, described the former president as “a distinguished statesman whose invaluable contributions greatly advanced democracy and regional integration, not only in West Africa but also across the entire African continent.”
Outside Africa
Beyond Africa, the international community has also expressed its grief. In a statement issued in Abuja, Türkiye’s embassy said it was “deeply saddened” by Buhari’s passing, offering prayers for the repose of his soul.
The U.S. Mission in Nigeria described Buhari as “a leader whose life was defined by service, discipline, and a commitment to restore integrity to public office. His legacy includes his efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s democratic institutions.”
“The U.S. 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. 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 Chinese Embassy in Nigeria remembered Buhari as “a resolute leader whose unwavering dedication to Nigeria’s unity and progress leaves an enduring legacy.” It highlighted his role in strengthening China–Nigeria ties, saying his contributions “will forever remain etched in our shared history.”
“The Chinese Embassy in Nigeria extends our deepest condolences to the people of Nigeria on the passing of His Excellency, Muhammadu Buhari (Rtd), Former President of Nigeria.”
Indian prime minister Narendra Modi, in a message shared on X, formerly Twitter, wrote: “Deeply saddened by the passing of former president of Nigeria Muhammadu Buhari. I fondly recall our meetings and conversations on various occasions. His wisdom, warmth and unwavering commitment to India–Nigeria friendship stood out.”
“We mourn 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 Nigerian people.”
Since the announcement of his death by his longtime spokesperson, Garba Shehu, Nigerians at home and in the diaspora have continued to mourn the passing of a man many regarded as a steady, if sometimes controversial, steward of Africa’s most populous nation.
BusinessDay