President Bola Tinubu on Monday paid glowing tribute to former President Muhammadu Buhari, describing him as a leader defined by “quiet strength, discipline and enduring grace.”
The President made the remarks at the unveiling of the biography From Soldier to Statesman: The Legacy of Muhammadu Buhari, held at the State House Conference Centre in Abuja.
Tinubu said Buhari’s record of integrity, personal restraint and modest living would remain a lasting source of inspiration for Nigerians across generations.
“The measure of a leader is not simply the offices he held or the motorcades that accompanied him. It is what persists when the sirens fall silent,” Tinubu said.
“President Muhammadu Buhari left behind a reputation for integrity, a spartan lifestyle, and the belief that public office is a trust and not a windfall.”
Reflecting on their shared political journey, Tinubu recalled working closely with Buhari to build the coalition that secured the landmark victory in the 2015 presidential election.
He noted that the political alliance formed in 2014 later evolved into what he described as Africa’s fastest-growing political party, reshaping Nigeria’s political landscape.
The President commended the biography for offering a balanced narrative of Buhari’s time in leadership, stating that it captured both accomplishments and limitations, and should be used as a guide for emerging leaders rather than reduced to political slogans.
Tinubu portrayed Buhari as a steadfast patriot whose personal honesty was recognised even by his harshest critics, adding that their collaboration underscored the importance of unity and cooperation despite differing views.
“Nation-building demands that we compete passionately and govern responsibly. In his memory, let us keep our politics honourable and our governance focused on results,” Tinubu said.
What you should know
President Bola Tinubu has publicly praised former President Muhammadu Buhari during the launch of a new biography chronicling Buhari’s life and leadership.
Tinubu highlighted Buhari’s integrity, modest lifestyle and belief in public service as a sacred trust. He reflected on their joint efforts in forming the political coalition that won the 2015 election and later grew into a dominant political force.
Tinubu described the biography as an honest account meant to educate future leaders and called for responsible politics rooted in cooperation, honour and effective governance in Buhari’s memory.
