Tinubu Unveils Buhari Biography at Presidential Villa
Abuja, December 15, 2025 — The Presidential Villa played host to a reflective and dignified gathering as President Bola Ahmed Tinubu formally presented From Soldier to Statesman: The Legacy of Muhammadu Buhari, a 600-page biography documenting the life and public service of Nigeria’s former President, Muhammadu Buhari.
The ceremony brought together members of the Buhari family, senior government officials, ministers, governors — including Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani — diplomats, security chiefs and other prominent figures from across the country. Former First Lady, Aisha Buhari, and close family members were present, lending a deeply personal tone to the occasion.
In his address, President Tinubu paid a heartfelt tribute, situating Buhari’s journey within Nigeria’s modern political story. He noted that leadership should be judged not by power or pageantry, but by the values that remain long after office is left behind. According to Tinubu, Buhari’s legacy of discipline, integrity, modest living and devotion to public service offers a lasting benchmark for leadership in Nigeria. He remarked that what truly defines a leader is what endures when authority fades.
Tracing Buhari’s path from military officer to democratically elected president, Tinubu described him as a leader known for restraint, honesty and a firm belief that public office is a sacred trust. He urged Nigerians, particularly the younger generation, to study these principles rather than reduce Buhari’s years of service to political catchphrases.
The book’s author, Dr. Charles Omole, presents a detailed and balanced account of Buhari’s personal beliefs, policy decisions and leadership style. The biography explores both accomplishments and controversies, offering readers a layered understanding of Nigeria’s political and security realities during Buhari’s time in power.
President Tinubu also reflected on his long-standing political alliance with Buhari, recalling how their joint efforts helped forge a national coalition that reshaped Nigeria’s democratic landscape — most notably in the landmark 2015 election that ended incumbent rule. He described their partnership as one built on a shared commitment to national unity across ethnic, religious and political divides.
Speakers at the event highlighted the defining moments of Buhari’s leadership, from his military background to his civilian administration’s focus on security, infrastructure and institutional reforms. They acknowledged that his governing style often sparked debate, but was consistently anchored in discipline and a strong sense of duty.
The launch also drew attention to another significant publication, Muhammadu Buhari: Compendium of Notable Quotes, written by Dr. G. Fraser, MFR, in 2022. Though yet to be officially unveiled, the book captures Buhari’s worldview through carefully selected quotes and visual storytelling.
Originally sponsored by the late Abba Kyari and Isa Funtua, the Compendium was designed to address public perceptions of Buhari by allowing his words to speak directly to readers. It serves as a complement to the newly launched biography, pairing documented history with Buhari’s own expressions on discipline, governance, unity and public trust.
It presents Buhari’s ideas in his own voice, without heavy interpretation.
Its blend of quotes and imagery makes it accessible to students, researchers and the wider public.
It adds depth to the historical record of one of Nigeria’s most influential leaders.
Beyond celebrating a book, the event became a moment for national introspection. President Tinubu emphasized that the lessons of leadership are timeless, and that Buhari’s commitment to service and integrity remains relevant to Nigeria’s future.
As From Soldier to Statesman joins Nigeria’s growing body of political literature, anticipation builds for the formal launch of the Compendium of Notable Quotes — both works contributing to a deeper, more nuanced understanding of leadership, legacy and nationhood.
