Former President Muhammadu Buhari has apologised for the tough decisions taken during his tenure while affirming his unwavering belief in the nation’s future.
The apology was contained in his address at the unveiling of books chronicling his presidency, one which was written by his former media aide, Femi Adesina.
The event, held at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel in Abuja on Tuesday, witnessed the launch of two significant publications: “Working with Buhari: Reflections of a Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, 2015 – 2023” and “Muhammadu Buhari: The Nigerian Legacy (2015 – 2023).”
Buhari, speaking at his first public appearance since leaving office on May 29, 2023, expressed deep gratitude to those who supported him during his presidency, including current President Asiwaju Bola Tinubu.
In a reflection of his time in office, Buhari highlighted the challenges and the tough choices faced by his administration.
Buhari acknowledged the sacrifices made by the Nigerian populace.
He extended an apology to those who felt the weight of the decisions, emphasising that they were never intended to cause pain or anguish.
He said, “with the cumulative achievements of government after government, I believe we will get there in no distant time.
“In our journey to the desired destination, there will be hard decisions
taken, and the people would bear some costs. We can only seek their
understanding, and state that there was no intention to deliberately inflict pain and anguish on anyone.
“This is why I apologized to such people at the end of our time in
office. Sacrifices are still being made now, and will continue to be part of our national life and development.
“Governments will continually seek the understanding and support of the people they lead, for our ultimate good and goal.”
Buhari emphasised the importance of the publications in preserving the history of his administration.
“These books exemplify the sanctity of records, documenting the facts and figures, achievements and milestones of our nation,” he said.
In a conversation with Femi Adesina, his former Media Adviser and the author of one of the books, Buhari noted the significance of such documentation in providing a comprehensive account of their stewardship to the country.
He expressed similar sentiments about the contributions of Dr. Udu Yakubu and his colleagues.
“Without documentation, revisionism wins,” Buhari stated, emphasizing the importance of recorded history in countering attempts to distort or obliterate it.
He noted that his administration operated with transparency and accountability, always mindful of the judgment of posterity.
Reflecting on the nature of governance, Buhari described it as a continuum, akin to a relay race.
“You run your course, and hand over the baton to the next person,” he explained.
He expressed his support and confidence in President Tinubu’s administration and their shared vision for Nigeria.
The former president concluded his address by thanking General Yakubu Gowon, General I.B.M. Haruna, and Alhaji Muhammed Indimi for their support.
He reaffirmed his commitment to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and expressed his faith in the strength, unity, and future of Nigeria.
