Foreign Affairs Minister Mourns Buhari: “Nigeria Has Lost A Dedicated Patriot”
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, has paid a moving tribute to the late former President Muhammadu Buhari, describing him as “a statesman of uncommon integrity” and “a towering figure in our nation’s history.”
In an official condolence message released in Abuja, Ambassador Tuggar expressed profound sorrow over Buhari’s passing, hailing his unwavering commitment to national unity, discipline, and the fight against corruption.
“President Buhari served Nigeria both in uniform and in civilian leadership with a calm resolve that inspired generations,” the Minister said, recalling Buhari’s famous words at his 2015 inauguration: “I belong to everybody and I belong to nobody.”
Tuggar highlighted Buhari’s influence beyond Nigeria’s borders, noting his key role in the peaceful resolution of Gambia’s 2016 political crisis, support for liberation movements in southern Africa during the 1980s, and his strategic engagement with global powers and regional blocs.
“He had friends and allies in all corners of the globe, but national interest always trumped sentiment,” the Minister said. “He bought fighter planes from the US, fertiliser from Russia and sealed the gas pipeline deal with Morocco.”
Ambassador Tuggar extended heartfelt condolences on behalf of the Ministry and the diplomatic community to Buhari’s family, the Government and People of Nigeria, and all who mourn the loss.
“Nigeria has lost a dedicated patriot; Africa has lost a noble son. We salute you,” the statement concluded.
President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, passed away at the age of 82. May Allah grant him Aljannatul Firdaus.
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