President of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), Dr Patrice Motsepe, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari.
He extended his condolences to Buhari’s family, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), its President Ibrahim Musa Gusau, and the people of Nigeria.
Motsepe praised Buhari’s commitment and passion for Nigerian football during his lifetime. “We are deeply saddened by the passing of the former President of Nigeria, His Excellency Muhammadu Buhari. On behalf of CAF and its member associations representing 54 African countries, I extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, the Government of Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), its President Ibrahim Musa Gusau, and the people of Nigeria.
“I had the honour of meeting President Muhammadu Buhari, and I was impressed by his commitment and passion for Nigerian football. President Buhari will forever live in our hearts and minds. May his soul rest in peace,” the CAF President stated in a condolence message posted on the official CAF website.
In a related development, Mallam Shehu Dikko, Chairman of the National Sports Commission, reflected on the former president’s lifelong dedication to national development:
“President Muhammadu Buhari was a symbol of discipline and public service. His belief in youth empowerment and national unity inspired many, including those of us in the sports sector. Under his leadership, sports became a strategic tool for diplomacy, economic development, and youth engagement, and indeed one of his final acts in office on May 28, 2023, was signing the National Sports Commission Act 2023. We mourn his passing but celebrate a legacy that will never be forgotten.”
Also paying tribute, Hon. Bukola Olopade, Director General of the NSC, described Buhari’s contributions as timeless:
“President Buhari’s support for sports as a platform for social cohesion and national pride was unwavering. From Olympic preparations to grassroots development, he recognised the value of sports in shaping our future. His passing is a national loss. May Allah grant him Aljannatul Firdaus. Amin.”
