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Ex-President Babangida Pays Heartfelt Tribute to Buhari, a ‘Moral Compass’ of Nigeria
Former military ruler General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (IBB) has released a deeply personal tribute following the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari, on July 13, 2025 in London. In a statement reflecting on decades of camaraderie, Babangida underscored the quiet virtues that characterized Buhari’s life and leadership.
“From those early days, Muhammadu stood out — quiet yet resolute, principled yet humble, deeply patriotic and fiercely loyal to Nigeria” .
Shared History: From Mid-1950s Classmates to National Leaders
Babangida and Buhari’s friendship began in 1962, when both attended the Nigerian Military Training College in Kaduna. Their shared journey—from military drills to strategic decision-making—cemented a bond rooted in discipline, faith, and love of country, Babangida noted.
“We shared trenches and trials, dreams and disappointments… a shared commitment to the ideals of service, discipline, and love for country” .
Their divergent paths—Buhari ascending to power twice and Babangida ruling after a coup—never diminished their mutual respect. Babangida recalled Buhari’s unwavering belief in integrity, public service, and the dignity of shared leadership.
Honouring a ‘Spiritual, Humble Statesman’
Beyond politics, Babangida portrayed Buhari as a man of deep spirituality and humility, who consistently acted with conviction—even when misunderstood or walking a lonely path.
“Beyond the uniform and the public glare, I knew him as a deeply spiritual man… humility of someone who believed in a higher calling” .
This tribute positions Buhari not merely as a former head of state, but as a moral beacon whose life embodied Nigeria’s political evolution and moral aspirations.
Legacy Shared, Continues in Transition
Babangida framed Buhari’s death as the end of a nation’s moral era, stating his passing represents a symbolic loss—a guiding star for national conscience:
“His passing… is the loss of a symbol… a man whose life embodied the transition of Nigeria from the old guard to the new republic” .
This declaration places Buhari in the lineage of Nigerian leaders—both military and civilian—who shaped national identity while serving during turbulent eras.
Condolences, Prayer and Familial Solidarity
Babangida extended deep condolences to the Buhari family, including wife Aisha, their children, and grandchildren, asking for Allah’s mercy on Buhari’s soul:
“May Allah (SWT), in His infinite mercy, forgive his shortcomings, accept his deeds, and grant him Aljannatul Firdaus” .
Such prayers reflect enduring traditions in Nigerian culture—linking spiritual compassion with respect for national service.
Expert Reflection: Statesmanship Beyond Politics
As Nigeria prepares for Buhari’s burial in Daura, this tribute offers fresh insight into his character:
A friendship rooted in shared military education and governance dreams
A man whose private humility contrasted with his public authority
A national symbol representing Nigeria’s complex transition
Dr. G. Adebajo-Fraser, MFR, highlights:
“IBB’s words reinforce that Buhari’s legacy goes beyond party politics—it is the quiet dignity of leadership in service that must guide Nigeria’s future.”
Conclusion
This deeply personal tribute from a political brother, rival, and enduring national figure—ex-Mil. Pres. IBB—moves the narrative beyond politics. It calls Nigeria to reflect on a life defined by integrity, humility, and love of country. As the nation bows to honour Muhammadu Buhari, Babangida’s words ask us to carry forward a shared legacy of national conscience and moral service.
Princess G. Fraser MFR
The National Patriots
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