The Buhari family, led by its most senior member, Malam Mamman Daura, has expressed profound gratitude to all individuals, institutions, and governments who offered their support, condolences, and prayers following the passing of Nigeria’s former President, Muhammad Buhari.
In a statement by Garba Shehu, Daura extended heartfelt thanks to President Bola Tinubu and First Lady, Remi Tinubu for their exceptional support and the role played by the Federal Government before, during, and after the former President’s demise.
“It is truly comforting to receive such support from the President and Vice President Kashim Shettima, who not only traveled to the United Kingdom but also spent valuable time with us in Daura during the mourning period. Their presence and compassion gave us the strength to face this loss with courage,” said Daura.
The family especially acknowledged the thoughtful gesture of the Federal Government in declaring a public holiday and renaming the University of Maiduguri in honor of President Buhari, recognizing his legacy and contributions.
The family expressed deep appreciation to world leaders and dignitaries who reached out in various forms including visits, messages, and phone calls. Among them were His Majesty King Charles lll of the United Kingdom,United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres and Deputy Secretary General Amina Mohammed, the Chairman of the African Union, the committee of Heads of state and Government of ECOWAS, and former Head of State General Abdulsalami Abubakar (rtd).
“Muhammadu Buhari’s passing is an irreparable loss, but the widespread outpouring of sympathy and respect has been a great source of strength,” the family noted.
The family thanked Vice President Kashim Shettima, state governors particularly, Dr Dikko Radda of Katsina and Prof Babagana Umar Zulum of Borno and others from across the country including Adamawa, Kano, Kwara, Lagos, Kaduna, Imo, Nasarawa, Bauchi, Sokoto, and Kebbi States. Special mention was also made of Dr Peter Obi for his personal condolence visit.
They also expressed appreciation to former Vice Presidents Atiku Abubakar, Architect Namadi Sambo, Professor Yemi Osinbajo and Ambassador Babagana Kingibe.
Further acknowledgements went to Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Speaker of the House of Representatives Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin and the other leaders and members of the National and State Assemblies.
“We do sincerely thank the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, SGF, Senator George Akume and his predecessor in office, Boss Mustapha, the current Chief of Staff, Honorable Femi Gbajabiamila and his predecessor, Professor Ibrahim Gambari, former and serving members of the cabinet in both administrations for their activities in these events and their comforting words.
“We are very pleased with the amazing gestures of our traditional leaders, notably the Sultan of Sokoto, the Shehu of Borno, the Emir of Gwandu and the host emirs of Katsina and Daura, as well as the various emirs and chiefs from all over Nigeria and the neighboring countries who came in person or sent representatives.
He also thanked business leaders who visited Daura in the persons of Alhaji Aliko Dangote, Abdul Samad Isyaka Rabi’u, Alhaji Muhammadu Indimi, Alhaji Dahiru Mangal, Kola Adesina and Nasiru Danu for their presence and support.
All of Nigeria came out in force to bury Buhari, to condole with us, and to pray for him. We are overwhelmed and deeply grateful for the outpouring of love, respect, and prayers offered for our beloved family member and former leader,” Daura said.
The Buhari family expressed final appreciation to the Nigerian people, foreign missions, security agencies, civil servants, and the media for their role in honoring the life and legacy of President Muhammadu Buhari.
“We ask for your continued prayers as we go through this period of mourning. May Almighty Allah bless and reward you all.”