Former Military President, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari, who died on Sunday. In a heartfelt statement personally signed by him, Babangida paid tribute to a longtime friend, brother-in-arms, and fellow statesman.
“Our paths first crossed in 1962 when we both joined the Nigerian Military Training College in Kaduna,” Babangida recalled. “From those early days, Muhammadu stood out — quiet yet resolute, principled yet humble, deeply patriotic and fiercely loyal to Nigeria. Over the years, we shared trenches and trials, dreams and disappointments, victories and moments of reflection. Our bond was forged not only through military service but through a shared devotion to the ideals of discipline, sacrifice, and national service.”
Reflecting on their leadership roles at different times in Nigeria’s history, Babangida noted that Buhari remained unwavering in his values. “Fate placed both of us in leadership under very different circumstances. Yet, through it all, Buhari was consistent — guided by integrity, a sense of order, and deep respect for the dignity of public office. He served Nigeria with unmatched commitment, even when the path was lonely or misunderstood.”
Beyond the uniform and political arena, Babangida described Buhari as a deeply spiritual man. “He found peace in faith and carried himself with the humility of one who believed in a higher calling. While we didn’t always agree — as brothers sometimes don’t — I never doubted his sincerity or his love for Nigeria.”
He emphasized that Buhari’s passing was more than the loss of a former Head of State or two-term civilian President. “Nigeria has lost a symbol — a man whose life bridged the old and the new, who remained a moral compass to many, even in retirement, and whose simplicity defined his approach to public life.”
Babangida extended his condolences to Buhari’s wife, Aisha, his children, grandchildren, and all Nigerians. “May Allah (SWT), in His infinite mercy, forgive his shortcomings, accept his good deeds, and grant him Aljannatul Firdaus.”
“May his legacy endure,” he concluded.
