The family of the late former President Muhammadu Buhari has expressed deep appreciation to Nigerians and the international community for their overwhelming show of support during the period of mourning and burial rites.
In a statement signed by mallam Garba Shehu, for the family through Malam Mamman Daura, the most senior member of the Buhari family extended special gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his wife, Senator Remi Tinubu, for their roles before and after the death of the former president.
“The visits, messages, and the decision to declare a public holiday and rename the University of Maiduguri after Buhari were thoughtful gestures that comforted our hearts,” the family stated.
Vice President Kashim Shettima, who traveled to the United Kingdom and later visited Daura with ministers during the mourning period, was also singled out for praise. “These acts have instilled courage in all of us to face this loss,” the family noted.
Gratitude was also extended to global leaders, including King Charles III of the United Kingdom, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres, Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed, the Chairman of the African Union, and ECOWAS Heads of State, for their condolences, letters, and personal visits or calls.
The family acknowledged visits and messages from current and former Nigerian leaders, including former Heads of State Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar, former Vice Presidents Atiku Abubakar, Namadi Sambo, Yemi Osinbajo, and Ambassador Babagana Kingibe.
Governors from various states, especially the host Governor of Katsina State, Dr. Dikko Umar Radda, as well as Borno State’s Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, and former Anambra State Governor, Dr. Peter Obi, were also recognized for their expressions of sympathy.
The statement further appreciated the presence and support of National Assembly leaders, including Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Speaker of the House Tajudeen Abbas, Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, and other lawmakers at both national and state levels.
Traditional rulers across Nigeria, including the Sultan of Sokoto, the Shehu of Borno, and the Emirs of Gwandu, Katsina, and Daura, were also commended for their solidarity.
The Buhari family expressed gratitude to religious and community leaders, youth groups, women, politicians, civil servants, security agencies, and media organizations who all participated in the mourning process.
Business moguls including Aliko Dangote, Abdul Samad Rabiu, Muhammadu Indimi, Dahiru Mangal, Kola Adesina, and Nasiru Danu were also recognized for their condolence visits.
President Muhammadu Buhari, who led Nigeria from 2015 to 2023, passed away in the United Kingdom earlier this month. He was buried in his hometown of Daura, Katsina State, in accordance with Islamic rites.
