Former military president, General Ibrahim Babangida (retd), has paid a deeply personal and emotional tribute to the late President Muhammadu Buhari, describing him as a brother, friend, and unwavering patriot whose entire life was dedicated to the service of Nigeria.
In a statement he personally signed, Babangida expressed profound sorrow over Buhari’s death, which he said was received with “a heavy heart.”
He reflected on their long-standing bond, which began in 1962 when both men joined the Nigerian Military Training College in Kaduna.
“From those early days, Muhammadu stood out—quiet yet resolute, principled yet humble, deeply patriotic, and fiercely loyal to Nigeria,” Babangida said.
He noted that their relationship evolved from military brotherhood to a shared journey through leadership and national service, despite sometimes differing views.
“In the course of our long careers, fate placed both of us in leadership at different times and under very different circumstances. But in all, Buhari remained consistent in his belief in integrity, order, and the dignity of public office.”
Babangida hailed Buhari’s character, highlighting his humility, strength of faith, and resilience in the face of criticism and political adversity.
He described Buhari’s passing as more than the loss of a statesman, calling it “the end of an era.”
“We may not have agreed on everything—as brothers often don’t—but I never once doubted his sincerity or his patriotism,” he added.
The former president said even in retirement, Buhari served as a moral compass and role model, admired for his simplicity and devotion to national service.
“To his beloved wife Aisha, his children, grandchildren, and the nation he loved and served, I extend my deepest condolences. May Allah (SWT) forgive his shortcomings, accept his good deeds, and grant him Aljannatul Firdaus,” Babangida concluded.
What you should know
General Ibrahim Babangida’s tribute to Muhammadu Buhari underscores their decades-long brotherhood, military and political partnership, and mutual respect.
Babangida praised Buhari’s life of service, discipline, and moral conviction, describing his death as not just a personal loss but the closing of a historic chapter in Nigeria’s leadership.
