By Ameh Gabriel
The Honourable Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Nigeria’s former President, Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, describing it as a monumental loss to the nation and the African continent.
In an official condolence message issued on Monday, Tuggar paid glowing tribute to the late leader, whom he described as “a statesman of uncommon integrity and a towering figure in our national history.”
“President Buhari served Nigeria with unwavering dedication both as a military officer and civilian leader. His legacy is defined by a life-long commitment to discipline, national unity, and the unrelenting fight against corruption,” the minister stated.
Reflecting on Buhari’s 2015 inaugural declaration “I belong to everybody and I belong to nobody” Tuggar noted that the late President signalled a bold, principled stand not only for Nigeria but for Africa and the wider world.
“He was not for sale, Nigeria was not for sale, Africa was not for sale,” the minister emphasized.
Tuggar also highlighted Buhari’s pivotal role in regional diplomacy and democratic stability across the continent. From spearheading the peaceful resolution of The Gambia’s political crisis in 2016, to supporting the liberation movements in South Africa and Namibia during the 1980s, Buhari stood firm for African self-determination and unity.
He was also lauded for strengthening Nigeria’s global partnerships and pursuing strategic national interests, whether purchasing fighter jets from the U.S., securing fertiliser from Russia, or championing the Nigeria-Morocco gas pipeline deal.
“President Buhari was a soldier by training, a patriot by instinct, and a democrat by conviction,” the statement read. “Nigeria has lost a devoted patriot; Africa has lost a noble son. We salute you.”
On behalf of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Nigeria’s diplomatic corps, Tuggar extended heartfelt condolences to the late President’s family, the Government, and the Nigerian people.
“May Almighty Allah (SWT) forgive his shortcomings and grant him eternal rest in Aljannatul Firdaus,” he concluded.
