The Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) has expressed sadness over the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari.
The forum, in a statement signed by its chairman and Kwara State governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, said Buhari’s death was a significant depletion in the ranks of Africa’s all-time great men.
The statement reads: “The Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) receives with a profound sense of loss and sadness the death of His Excellency, former President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, in London, on Sunday, July 13, 2025.
“This death is a significant depletion in the ranks of Africa’s all-time great men. Muhammadu Buhari was not just a former President or military leader; he was a national political leader with profound moral courage, character, and an amazing sense of duty. He would be remembered for his humility, strategic patience, and modest lifestyle.
“We send our deepest condolences to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, on the painful loss of his dear friend, compatriot, immediate predecessor, and fellow party man.
“Our thoughts are also with Her Excellency, former First Lady Mrs Aishah Buhari, and the rest of the family at this difficult moment.
“Similarly, we commiserate with His Excellency, Governor Dikko Umar Radda and the good people of Katsina State on this very sad development,” he said.
Putting People First Remains Buhari’s Legacy – Gov Radda
Governor Dikko Umaru Radda of Katsina State has described the legacy of late former President Muhammadu Buhari as one firmly rooted in compassion, humility, and unwavering commitment to the common man.
Reacting to the news of the former President’s death in London at the age of 83, Governor Radda said Buhari’s life and leadership were defined by a singular principle: putting people first.
“President Buhari was not just a leader; he was the embodiment of the common man’s aspirations,” Radda said. “His people-oriented programmes and genuine love for the masses defined his leadership philosophy. He governed with the belief that leadership is a trust, and that trust must be used to uplift the lives of ordinary Nigerians.”
From social investment schemes and agricultural reform to healthcare and education support for the vulnerable, Buhari’s presidency prioritised initiatives aimed at reducing poverty and empowering citizens. Millions benefited from the National Social Investment Programmes (NSIP), including N-Power, TraderMoni, and the Conditional Cash Transfer scheme.
“Even when facing difficult economic realities, President Buhari stood by the poor,” Governor Radda noted. “His legacy is not about political grandeur but about service to humanity. He lived modestly, governed simply, and always stayed connected to the hopes and struggles of the average Nigerian.”
Gov. Uba Sani Bids Farewell To Ex-President Buhari
Kaduna state governor Uba Sani has mourned former President Muhammadu Buhari, describing him as a man of spartan simplicity and deep faith.
In a statement personally signed by Governor Sani,
He said President Buhari lived with quiet dignity and unwavering commitment to the service of Nigeria.
The statement read, “It is with profound sorrow and complete submission to the will of Almighty Allah that we receive the news of the passing of one of Nigeria’s most revered sons — President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR. A towering figure in our national life: he was a soldier, statesman, reformer, and, above all, a beloved leader of the people”
“From his early days in the military to his presidency, he embodied discipline, integrity, and uncommon patriotism. His courage in confronting corruption and insisting on accountability in public life inspired millions. A man of Spartan simplicity and deep faith, he remained grounded in the values of justice and fairness, always aligning himself with the hopes and struggles of the ordinary Nigerian — the talakawa, whom he championed with conviction”
Buhari’s Death Unexpected – Makinde
Oyo State governor, Seyi Makinde, has expressed his condolences to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu, on the death of his predecessor in office, former President Muhammadu Buhari.
He equally commiserated with the wife of the former president, Hajia Aisha Buhari and his entire family, praying to God to grant repose to his soul.
In a statement made available to newsmen on Sunday, Makinde described Buhari’s death as unexpected, noting, however, that the former president made his mark in serving the country.
Okpebholo Mourns Buhari, Says He Was A Man of Unwavering Integrity
Governor Monday Okpeholo on Sunday described the late Former President Muhammad Buhari as a man of unwavering Integrity who dedicated his life to serving Nigeria.
In a statement released by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Fred Itua, Governor Okpebholo described the late former President as a true patriot, a disciplined leader, and a man of unwavering integrity who dedicated his life to the service of Nigeria.
Niger Governor Mourns Former President Buhari
Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago, has said that the late immediate past President of Nigeria Muhammadu Buhari has contributed a lot to Nation building and steadfast in his service to humanity.
In a message through his Chief Press Secretary, Bologi Ibrahim, the governor described the former president as an elder statesman who has etched his name in the annals of Nigeria’s history.
He observed that ” former President Buhari was a very disciplined personality and lived a life of service to humanity, and dedication to nation-building”.
Buhari’s Legacy Of Service, Truth Lives On –Governor Sule
Nasarawa State Governor Abdullahi Sule has said that despite his demise, the late former President Muhammadu Buhari’s legacy of service and truth will continue to live on.
In a condolence message he personally signed, Governor Sule described the late former leader as a beacon of integrity and patriotism who left indelible marks in the sands of time in the country.
“It is with deep sorrow and a profound sense of loss that I receive the sad news of the passing of His Excellency, Muhammadu Buhari, an elder statesman and former President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
“The late President Buhari was not just a leader; he was a symbol of honesty, discipline, and unwavering commitment to the Nigerian project.
“Throughout his life, he stood as a beacon of integrity and patriotism; never wavering in his resolve to serve the country with selflessness, honesty and courage.
“His leadership was marked by simplicity and a deep sense of duty, which endeared him to millions both at home and abroad,” he said.
The governor noted that the late Buhari’s connection with Nasarawa State was especially heartfelt, adding, “he was a friend to the people, a father figure to so many of us, and a guiding light to leaders across generations.”
Governor Adeleke Mourns Transition Of Ex-President Buhari
Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State has expressed his deep pain over former President Muhammadu Buhari’s passing, describing the late Nigerian leader as a patriot who contributed immensely to national development.
Governor Adeleke, in a statement by his spokesperson, Mallam Olawale Rasheed, extended his heartfelt condolences to President Bola Tinubu on the loss. He said that Nigeria had lost a distinguished leader who gave his all for the country’s progress.
The Governor also commiserated with former First Lady, Mrs Aishat Buhari, surviving children and immediate family who lost more than just a father and confidant, but an embodiment of integrity who brought so much difference to governance in Nigeria.
Gov Yusuf Describes Buhari As Symbol Of Discipline, Patriotism
The Kano state Governor, Alhaji Abba Yusuf, has expressed profound shock and sadness over the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari. He described him as a towering figure whose life embodied discipline, integrity, and unwavering love for Nigeria.
Governor Yusuf in a statement signed by his director of media and publicity, Sanusi Bature, paid a glowing tribute to the late President’s life of service, noting that both as a military ruler and as a democratically elected leader, Buhari dedicated himself to the unity, stability, and progress of the nation.
Governor Mohammed Says Buhari Is National Icon
The Governor of Bauchi State, Bala Mohammed, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away in London after a prolonged illness.
In a solemn statement issued on Sunday, signed by his spokesperson, Mukhtar Gidado, the governor described Buhari’s passing as a profound national loss. He noted that the former president’s legacy of discipline, integrity, and selfless service would forever remain etched on Nigeria’s history.
“The news of President Buhari’s death has plunged the nation into mourning,” Governor Mohammed said, recalling the late leader’s pivotal roles as Nigeria’s former military Head of State and later as a democratically elected President.
Buhari Demonstrated Unparalleled Leadership Skills, Patriotism, Says Sanwo-Olu
Lagos State Governor Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has mourned the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari, saying the late President demonstrated unparalleled leadership skills, patriotism, and courage in steering the ship of Nigeria.
Governor Sanwo-Olu, in a condolence message issued on Sunday by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Gboyega Akosile, said Buhari was a transparent, courageous and honest leader.
He described the late former President as a man who truly loved Nigeria and contributed his quota towards her development.
Buhari Audacious, Prudent, Strong-willed – Aiyedatiwa
The Ondo State governor, Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has described former President Muhammadu Buhari as audacious, prudent, contented, strong-willed, and compassionate.
Aiyedatiwa, who said that he received the news of Buhari’s passing on Sunday afternoon, described the former President as a man who valued his integrity and couldn’t hide his feelings.
The governor, in a statement he personally signed and made available to journalists in Akure, the state capital, on Sunday, commiserated with the immediate family of the former President and the government of Katsina State.
Zulum Expresses Shock
Borno State Governor Professor Babagana Umara Zulum has received with deep shock and immense sorrow the news of the death of His Excellency Muhammadu Buhari, former President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
In a press statement signed by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media, Dauda Iliya, Gov. Zulum said although death was inevitable to mankind, Buhari’s demise at this critical time of Nigeria’s democratic journey was colossal, as the vacuum created was going to be difficult to fill.
The statement reads: “It is with profound sadness that I learned of the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari while receiving treatment at a London Clinic today (Sunday, July 13, 2025).
Abiodun Mourns Buhari’s Death, Says Transition Shocking, Devastating
Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, on Sunday joined the league of eminent Nigerians who mourned the passing to glory of former President Muhammadu Buhari, whose death occurred at a London Hospital in the United Kingdom on Sunday.
Abiodun expressed shock at the news of former President Buhari’s demise and said he was devastated at the news of the former military and civilian Nigerian leader’s transition.
Abiodun, in a statement issued on Sunday in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital, noted that though death is a bill that all mortals must pay, the death of the former president came to him as a rude shock.
Buni Mourns Former President Buhari
Yobe state Governor Hon. (Dr) Mai Mala Buni, has condoled with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, the family of former President Muhammadu Buhari, the Katsina state government, the Daura Emirate, and Nigerians over the passing of the former President, Muhammadu Buhari GCFR.
In a statement signed by Mamman Mohammed, DG Press and Media Affairs, former President Buhari was described as a nationalist who dedicated his life to the unity and service of his fatherland, saying, “his death is a sad, huge and monumental loss to the country.
“The government and people of Yobe state condole with the President and Commander in Chief, Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, the government and people of Katsina state, Daura Emirate and indeed the people of Nigeria over the loss of this committed nationalist who believed in the unity and progress of Nigeria.”
Buhari: Nigeria Has Lost A Distinguished Statesman – Senator Adamu
Former National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Senator Abdullahi Adamu, has mourned the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari, stating that he was “a distinguished statesman and patriot” who left an impeccable record of integrity and selfless service to Nigeria.
Adamu, in a statement he personally signed, said Buhari’s emergence as the first Nigerian to defeat a sitting President was not accidental but “a result of his integrity and patriotism.”
The former governor of Nasarawa recalled that from May 2015 to the moment he left Office in May 2023, Buhari had placed Nigeria on a steady pedestal of growth, with remarkable feats in infrastructure, including new power stations, several oil and gas facilities, new dams, massive agricultural projects, among others.
“From his days as a young military officer to the time he emerged as our elected leader, President Muhammadu Buhari stood tall for his forthrightness, discipline and integrity. He was a pathfinder for his unmatched honesty and his selfless services to Nigeria”, said Senator Adamu.
Buhari Was A Patriot With Moral Clarity, Calm Strength- SGF
The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away on Sunday, July 13, 2025, in the United Kingdom.
Speaking on behalf of the Federal Executive Council (FEC), the SGF described President Buhari as a true patriot, statesman, and disciplined leader who served Nigeria with honour and integrity.
In a statement issued by the director information in his office, Segun Imohiosen, he noted that President Buhari’s legacy—spanning his leadership as military Head of State (1984–1985) and as a democratically elected President (2015–2023)—was defined by a resolute fight against corruption, a commitment to national unity, and unwavering dedication to public service.
Gov Aliyu, Sultan Mourn Buhari
The Governor of Sokoto State, Ahmed Aliyu, has expressed deep shock and sadness over the news of the passing of former President of Nigeria, Muhammadu Buhari.
The Governor described the death of the former President as a monumental loss to the entire nation, noting that the vacuum left behind would be difficult to fill.
Governor Aliyu prayed to Almighty Allah to forgive the late President’s shortcomings, accept his good deeds, grant him the highest place in paradise, and comfort his family during this difficult time.
On behalf of the government and good people of Sokoto state, the Governor extended his heartfelt condolences to the immediate family of the late President, the government and people of Katsina State, and Nigerians as a whole over this tragic loss.
Similarly, the Sultan of Sokoto and President General of the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), His Eminence Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, has expressed condolences upon receiving the news of the demise of former President Muhammadu Buhari.
In an official statement released by the Sultan’s Media Team, he described Buhari’s passing as “the end of an era,” underscoring his significant contributions to nation-building and his unwavering belief in the traditional institution as a pathway to a Nigeria characterised by peace, unity, and prosperity.
“He was a great Nigerian leader, endowed with the qualities that commanded respect both before, during, and after his tenure as President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” stated the Sultan.
Reflecting on Buhari’s impactful tenure, the Sultan noted, “As Military Head of State, he introduced discipline through the War Against Indiscipline (WAI). Additionally, as Federal Commissioner for Petroleum Resources, he was instrumental in establishing the only oil refineries that Nigeria has ever boasted of.
Buhari Was A Statesman, Leader of Great Integrity — Akpabio
Senator Godswill Akpabio, president of the Senate, has expressed profound sadness over the passing of the immediate past President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, describing him as “a statesman and leader of great integrity.”
Akpabio, in a statement personally signed by him and issued to journalists in Abuja, condoled with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the government and people of Katsina state, and Gen. Buhari’s immediate family over the former president’s demise.
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