Former Military President, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (rtd), has expressed deep sorrow over the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari, describing him as a brother, friend, and patriot whose legacy will endure beyond his lifetime.
In a powerful tribute issued on Sunday, July 13, the retired general recalled his decades-long relationship with Buhari, which began in 1962 when both men joined the Nigerian Military Training College in Kaduna. According to Babangida, their friendship was built on shared values of discipline, service, and commitment to Nigeria.
“From those early days, Muhammadu stood out — quiet yet resolute, principled yet humble, deeply patriotic and fiercely loyal to Nigeria,” he wrote.
General Babangida said Buhari’s passing marks more than the end of a statesman’s life, but the loss of a symbol of integrity, modesty, and unwavering patriotism.
“We shared trenches and trials, dreams and disappointments, victories and moments of reflection. Our bond was forged not only by military training, but by a shared commitment to the ideals of service and love for country,” Babangida noted.
Reflecting on their separate journeys into leadership, Babangida acknowledged the distinct paths they took — Buhari as both a military and democratically elected President, and himself as a former Head of State. Despite their occasional differences, Babangida said he never doubted Buhari’s sincerity.
“We may not have agreed on everything — as brothers often don’t — but I never once doubted his sincerity or his patriotism.”
He praised Buhari as a spiritual man who bore the burden of leadership with humility and a sense of higher calling, even when his choices were misunderstood.
“His life embodied the transition of Nigeria from the old guard to the new republic. Even in retirement, he remained a moral compass to many, and an example of modesty in public life.”
Babangida offered condolences to the Buhari family and prayed that Allah grants him Aljannatul Firdaus.
“To his beloved wife Aisha, his children, grandchildren, and the nation he loved and served — I extend my deepest condolences.”
“May Allah (SWT), in His infinite mercy, forgive his shortcomings, accept his deeds, and grant him Aljannatul Firdaus. May his legacy endure.”
President Muhammadu Buhari passed away in London on Sunday, July 13, 2025, at the age of 82, after a prolonged illness. He served as Nigeria’s military leader from 1983 to 1985 and later as a civilian President from 2015 to 2023.