University of Maiduguri Former President Muhammadu Buhari dies at 82; Tinubu, allies pay glowing tributes, recall historic 2015 power shift
President Bola Tinubu has announced the renaming of the University of Maiduguri to Muhammadu Buhari University in honour of the late former President, who died on Sunday, July 13, at the age of 82.
He made the declaration during Buhari’s state funeral in Daura, Katsina State, where he led national dignitaries to pay their last respects. The President described Buhari as a symbol of democratic resilience, humility, and patriotic leadership.
“It is a profound honour to lead this burial procession. Mai Gaskiya, the People’s General, the Farmer President — your duty is done. May Almighty Allah forgive your shortcomings and grant you Aljannah Firdaus,” Tinubu said in a heartfelt tribute. “President Buhari, thank you. Nigeria will remember you.”
The President commended Buhari’s character after office, describing him as a man who chose a quiet life in Daura over political meddling. “When his tenure ended, he returned to Daura, not to command from the shadows but to live modestly, never seeking to impose his will. Even in death, he remained serene — not a sigh, not a groan—just quiet submission to the will of God.”
Reflecting on their political journey, Tinubu recalled their pivotal alliance that led to the historic 2015 elections, Nigeria’s first democratic transfer of power between political parties. “We stood together, he and I, alongside others from across Nigeria, to make history. When he became our party’s first elected President, he led with restraint, governed with dignity, and bore the burdens of leadership without complaint.”
Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, also paid tribute, revealing that Buhari once advised him to lead with the heart of a servant. Meanwhile, Minister of Works David Umahi disclosed that the late President backed his succession and shielded him from political saboteurs.
Former presidential spokesman, in his remarks, expressed shock over Buhari’s passing, saying, “I didn’t expect Buhari to die in just 10 years.”
President Tinubu extended gratitude to the Inter-Ministerial Committee and Governor Dikko Radda of Katsina State for organizing a befitting funeral within 48 hours of the former leader’s passing.
As Nigeria mourns, tributes continue to pour in for the man many remember as humble, firm, and unwavering in service.
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