By Headlinenews.News Staff Reporter | July 15, 2025 | London
In a deeply emotional reflection, Nigeria’s former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar (rtd), has revealed that he was recently hospitalized in the same London medical facility as former President Muhammadu Buhari, sharing intimate final moments with the late statesman before his passing on Sunday, July 13, 2025.
Shared Space, Shared Legacy
Speaking to reporters in Abuja after returning from London, General Abdulsalami said:
“Unfortunately, we were in the same hospital together… When I heard the news [of his passing], I quickly went there to condole with the family and see what could be done to get the corpse ready to be taken home.”
Their time together, he added, was both reflective and spiritual. “We spoke at length about Nigeria. Even in frailty, Buhari’s mind was still focused on the country,” Abdulsalami shared.
Brotherhood Beyond Politics
The relationship between the two men spans more than 60 years, tracing back to 1962 when they joined the Nigerian Military Training College in Kaduna. As junior officers, they were shaped by the same drills, discipline, and devotion to service.
Abdulsalami described Buhari as:
“A gentleman — very quiet, extremely honest. You could trust him with anything on earth, and he would not betray you.”
This testimony echoes across the ranks of retired officers and political allies who saw Buhari as a rare breed: incorruptible, focused, and selfless.
A Final Reflection on Leadership
Despite facing political and administrative challenges, Abdulsalami said Buhari stayed consistent in his moral compass:
“Even when he became a democratic President, he remained committed to fighting corruption and preserving national unity.”
The retired General noted, however, that Buhari’s legacy was not without controversy:
“Some of the people who served under him might have failed, but Buhari himself stayed the course. He never wavered.”
He added with hope:
“Perhaps his passing will bring a national awakening — a moment of reflection and correction for all in leadership.”
Historical Parallel
It is rare in modern African history for two former Heads of State — who once governed under military rule — to find themselves reunited in vulnerability, far from home.
Their shared presence in the London hospital underscores a paradox of Nigeria’s post-independence leadership: the reliance on foreign healthcare by those who once held power domestically.
This moment also raises important questions about national investment in health infrastructure — one that Buhari himself began addressing through projects like the Federal Medical Centres upgrade under the Next Level Agenda.
A Lesson in Statesmanship
With humility, Abdulsalami praised Buhari’s modest lifestyle and avoidance of extravagance:
“He was a modest man. Even in power, he kept a quiet profile. Nigeria meant everything to him.”
Their final conversations, according to Abdulsalami, were focused on reconciliation, faith, and unity.
Prayer for a Fellow Soldier and Leader
As the late President is laid to rest in Daura, Abdulsalami offered this heartfelt prayer:
“May Allah (SWT) forgive his shortcomings, accept his deeds, and grant him Aljannatul Firdaus. May his legacy guide us all.”
Editor’s Note
This touching revelation adds a profoundly human dimension to the national mourning of Muhammadu Buhari. It reminds Nigerians that behind every title and uniform is a man of flesh and faith — capable of deep friendship, vision, and reflection.
Related:
VP Shettima, Gbajabiamila Escort Buhari’s Body from London – Full Details
Seven Days of Mourning: Nigeria Reflects on Buhari’s Legacy
Timeline: Buhari and Abdulsalami – A Brotherhood Across Decades.
Headlinenews.news Special report.
