President Bola Tinubu on Monday urged Nigerians to draw inspiration from the discipline, integrity and sense of service that defined the life of former President Muhammadu Buhari, saying those values remain essential to building a stable and enduring nation.
Tinubu spoke at the launch of From Soldier to Statesman: The Legacy of Muhammadu Buhari at the State House, Abuja, where he reflected on Buhari’s public life and the values he said should guide present and future leaders.
“The measure of a leader is not the offices he held, but what persists when the sirens fall silent,” Tinubu said.
He described Buhari as a leader marked by quiet strength, personal discipline and a firm belief that public office is a trust rather than an avenue for personal enrichment.
The President said Buhari left behind a reputation for integrity and a spartan lifestyle, qualities that continued to earn him respect even from those who disagreed with his policies.
He stressed that Buhari consistently demonstrated love for Nigeria, remaining faithful to the oath of office he took.
Recalling their shared political journey, Tinubu spoke of the 2015 general election that produced Nigeria’s first defeat of an incumbent president.
He said the victory was achieved through a broad coalition that cut across regions and interests, proving that the country could chart a new political course.
“Together, we built a movement that united diverse interests and achieved a historic victory, reshaping Nigeria’s political landscape,” Tinubu said.
He noted that the book presents a balanced account of Buhari’s leadership, highlighting both achievements and shortcomings, and urged future leaders to draw lessons rather than rely on slogans.
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Tinubu identified humility, security, long-term vision and social justice as core pillars of Buhari’s legacy.
“Legacy is given greater meaning when those who follow choose to continue what has been started. That is my duty,” he said, adding that cooperation across political and social differences should be seen as wisdom, not weakness.
The President urged Nigerians to keep politics honourable and governance focused on tangible results.
He also offered prayers for Allah’s mercy for the late former president and comfort for his family, extending condolences to Buhari’s widow, Aisha Buhari, and other relatives.
Author of the book, Dr Charles Omole, described the 600-page publication as the most comprehensive account of Buhari’s life and leadership, noting that it addressed complex questions surrounding his journey from soldier to statesman.
Former service chiefs and senior officials who served under Buhari paid tributes at the event, reflecting on his leadership style and commitment to national service.
Speaking on behalf of the family, Buhari’s daughter, Hajia Hadiza Buhari, thanked Tinubu and Nigerians for their support and prayers.
She said her father’s life, though not perfect, should challenge the next generation to build systems strong enough to turn good intentions into lasting outcomes.
The event was attended by Gambian President Adama Barrow, First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, ministers and state governors. Katsina State Governor, Dikko Radda, described Buhari as an incorruptible leader whose legacy would continue to inspire future generations.
NAN
