Former Military President of Nigeria, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (rtd), has paid a moving tribute to his longtime friend, course mate, and fellow statesman, President Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away on July 13, 2025, in a London hospital.
In a personally signed statement released Monday morning, Babangida expressed profound sorrow over Buhari’s passing, describing him as a “resolute patriot” and “moral compass” whose life was marked by unwavering service, discipline, and national dedication.
“I received the announcement of the passing of President Muhammadu Buhari with a deeply heavy heart,” Babangida wrote.
“His life and legacy are deeply etched in the fabric of Nigeria’s nationhood.”
Reflecting on their shared journey, IBB recalled their first encounter in 1962 at 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,” he said.
Babangida emphasized that their bond went beyond the military, evolving into a decades-long friendship shaped by shared national duty and mutual respect.
“In the course of our long careers, fate placed both of us in leadership at different times and in very different circumstances. But Buhari remained consistent in his belief in integrity, order, and the dignity of public office,” Babangida said.
“He served Nigeria with a deep sense of responsibility and unwavering commitment, even when the road was lonely or misunderstood.”
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Describing Buhari as a “deeply spiritual man” who drew strength from faith, IBB acknowledged that while they had their disagreements, he never doubted Buhari’s love for the country.
“We may not have agreed on everything — as brothers often don’t — but I never once doubted his sincerity or his patriotism,” Babangida emphasized.
He went on to call Buhari’s death a national tragedy, saying, “This is not just the loss of a former Head of State or a two-term civilian President. Nigeria has lost a symbol — a man who embodied the evolution of our leadership across eras.”
“He remained, even in retirement, a moral compass to many and an example of modesty in public life,” he added.
The former military ruler extended heartfelt condolences to Buhari’s widow, Aisha, their children and grandchildren, and the entire nation.
“May Allah (SWT), in His infinite mercy, forgive his shortcomings, accept his deeds, and grant him Aljannatul Firdaus,” Babangida prayed.
President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, died at the age of 83 after a protracted illness. His burial arrangements are being coordinated by the Federal Government, with full state honours expected.