State governors across Nigeria have expressed deep sorrow over the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari, offering glowing tributes that underscore his legacy as a disciplined, patriotic, and selfless leader.
In a statement issued on Sunday by the Nigeria Governors’ Forum and signed by its chairman, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara State, the forum described Buhari’s passing as a profound national loss.
“The Nigeria Governors’ Forum receives with a profound sense of loss and sadness the death of His Excellency former President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, in London, on Sunday, July 13, 2025,” the statement read.
“This death is a significant depletion in the rank of Africa’s all-time great men. Muhammadu Buhari was not just a former President or military leader; he was a national political leader with profound moral courage, character, and amazing sense of duty. He would be remembered for his humility, strategic patience, and modest lifestyle.”
The governors also offered condolences to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, describing Buhari as Tinubu’s “dear friend, compatriot, immediate predecessor, and fellow party man.”
The Progressive Governors’ Forum, made up of governors elected under the All Progressives Congress (APC), also released a condolence message signed by its chairman and Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma.
“With the passing of President Buhari, Nigeria bids farewell to one of its most emblematic figures of honest and dedicated leadership; an era shaped by integrity, patriotism, and uncommon sacrifice,” Uzodimma said.
Gombe State Governor and Chairman of the Northern States Governors’ Forum, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, described the late Buhari as a towering figure in Nigeria’s political history.
“President Muhammadu Buhari was an iconic figure whose life embodied discipline, integrity and a steadfast commitment to the service of Nigeria,” Yahaya stated. “To us in the Northern Governors’ Forum, President Buhari was not just a national icon, but also a mentor and moral compass that stood firm on the principles of accountability, transparency and good governance.”
Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, expressed shock at Buhari’s death, acknowledging the late leader’s efforts in national development, particularly in infrastructure.
“Former President Muhammadu Buhari dead? It is hard to process this news at the moment. We had expected, like he did in the past, that he would pull through at this time, but we take profound comfort in the fact that he left great imprints on the sands of time,” Abiodun said.
Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, also paid tribute, noting that “President Buhari was a great leader who served Nigeria with commitment and a deep sense of duty. His contributions to national development and his steadfastness in leadership will be remembered.”
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Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, in his message, said, “Nigeria has lost a statesman. History has gained a legend,” adding that Buhari was “a soldier, statesman, reformer, and, above all, a beloved leader of the people.”
He continued, “President Buhari lived with quiet dignity and unwavering commitment to the service of Nigeria. His courage in confronting corruption and insisting on accountability in public life inspired millions.”
Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, said Buhari’s legacy would be remembered for its courage and commitment to national interest. “The country will miss a statesman, a patriot, and a leader who committed his entire life to the service of Nigeria,” he said.
The Governor of Kebbi State, through his Chief Press Secretary, Ahmed Idris, joined in mourning the late President and prayed for Allah to forgive his shortcomings.
From Edo State, Governor Monday Okpebholo described Buhari as “a true patriot, a disciplined leader, and a man of unwavering integrity who dedicated his life to the service of Nigeria.”
Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, said through his media aide that Buhari’s death was “a monumental loss to Nigeria in particular and Africa as a whole,” noting that he served the country meritoriously both as a military officer and as an elected leader.
In Oyo State, Governor Seyi Makinde sent condolences to Aisha Buhari and the family, acknowledging the former president’s contributions and praying for the repose of his soul.
According to a statement by his media aide, Dr. Sulaimon Olanrewaju, Makinde noted that Buhari “made his mark in serving the country.”
