Nigerians have long known President Muhammadu Buhari as a stern and disciplined leader, often perceived as a no-nonsense figure with little room for sentimentality. However, in a new revelation, Special Adviser on Media and Publicity Femi Adesina has peeled back the curtain on a lesser-known side of the President: his deep well of empathy and compassion.
Adesina’s forthcoming memoir, “Working with Buhari,” set for release in January 2024, paints an intimate portrait of the President, showcasing a man far beyond the public image. Through anecdotes and personal experiences, Adesina reveals Buhari’s quiet acts of kindness and unexpected interventions in the lives of individuals facing challenges.
In a Friday piece titled, “Untold Story of Buhari’s Humane Interventions as He Clocks 81 Tomorrow,” an excerpt from his forthcoming memoir, Adesina delved into various instances showcasing President Buhari’s softer and empathetic side.
One such example is the story of Dame Pauline Tallen, the Minister of Women Affairs. During a trip to Rwanda in 2022, Dame Tallen suffered a fall and required medical attention. Upon hearing the news, President Buhari promptly assembled his aides and personally visited Dame Tallen in the hospital, offering his well wishes and ensuring she received the necessary care, even proposing her evacuation for better treatment if needed.
Another touching story involves Dr Marilyn Amobi, the former Managing Director of the Nigerian Bulk Electricity Trading (NBET) Plc. Dr. Amobi, known for her integrity and unwavering stance against corruption, faced immense pressure from powerful interests during her tenure. When she courageously resisted a shady deal involving Acu Gas, she found herself ostracized and targeted. However, President Buhari, impressed by her honesty and courage, stood by her side, offering his support and praising her unwavering commitment to ethical conduct.
Adesina’s memoir also reveals President Buhari’s deep sense of empathy and respect for human dignity. He recounts instances where the President went out of his way to offer comfort and support to those in need, such as attending farewell services for loved ones of his staff and personally calling individuals to offer condolences. These actions, often unseen by the public eye, paint a picture of a leader who deeply cares for the well-being of those around him.
While President Buhari’s public persona has often been characterized by firmness and decisiveness, Adesina’s revelations offer a valuable counterpoint, showcasing a leader capable of profound empathy and quiet acts of kindness. This human dimension adds a new layer of understanding to the complex figure of President Buhari, reminding us that even the most powerful figures can harbour unexpected depths of compassion.
Femi Adesina’s memoir, “Working with Buhari,” promises to be a captivating read, offering a unique glimpse into the hidden side of a Nigerian leader. By highlighting Buhari’s acts of kindness and empathy, Adesina challenges the one-dimensional image often presented in the media and encourages us to see the multifaceted human being behind the President’s office.
