President Bola Tinubu on Thursday evening chaired a special Federal Executive Council session dedicated to honouring the late President Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away on Sunday.
The commemorative meeting was held at the Council Chambers in the Aso Rock Villa, as confirmed via a statement posted on X by Dada Olusegun, the president’s aide on social media.
Leading his cabinet in tribute, President Tinubu gave an emotional address, recalling the former leader’s unwavering principles and his deep sense of duty to Nigeria and God.
“He was first among soldiers in war, first among citizens in peace, and first, without ambition or flattery, in the hearts of his fellow citizens,” Tinubu said.
“Yet in his private life’s quiet and unadorned settings, his most real greatness was revealed.”
Describing Buhari’s leadership style, Tinubu added: “He stood always ramrod, unmoved by the temptation of power, unseduced by applause, and unafraid of the loneliness that sometimes comes to those who do what is right rather than popular.”
Tinubu also recounted their political partnership, recalling how they worked together to unseat an incumbent government and usher in a new era in Nigeria’s democracy.
“When he was sworn in as our party’s first elected President, he led with restraint, governed with dignity, and bore the burdens of leadership without complaint,” he said.
Although acknowledging Buhari’s imperfections, Tinubu emphasized his moral compass and legacy. “Nigerians and the world will debate his record… but the incorruptible standard he represented will not be forgotten. His life was dedicated to serving Nigeria and Allah.”
Buhari, who died in a London hospital after an undisclosed illness, was buried on Tuesday in Daura, Katsina State.
The special FEC session had initially been planned for earlier in the week but was rescheduled to accommodate the state funeral.