Nigeria on Thursday witnessed a moment of solemn unity and reflection as the Federal Executive Council (FEC) held a special expanded session in honour of former President Muhammadu Buhari, days after his burial in Daura, Katsina State.
The late president, who passed away on July 13, 2025, in a London hospital, was laid to rest on Monday, July 15, in his hometown, with full military honours and in the presence of dignitaries including President Bola Tinubu, governors, ministers, and traditional rulers.
Two days later, on July 17, the Aso Rock Presidential Villa hosted an extraordinary session of the FEC, bringing together not only cabinet members but also heads of the National Assembly, the judiciary, former ministers, service chiefs, and members of the Buhari family.
President Tinubu, who presided over the session, paid glowing tribute to his predecessor, describing him as “a patriot who lived and led with quiet strength, moral discipline, and unwavering love for the nation.”
“President Muhammadu Buhari was a soldier in war, a leader in peace, and a father to our democracy. He carried the weight of this nation on his shoulders with grace, and in his retirement, continued to inspire with silence and dignity,” Tinubu said in his address.
Other speakers included Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, who both praised Buhari’s lifelong service, simplicity, and incorruptibility.
However, it was the heartfelt address by Yusuf Buhari, the late president’s eldest son, that left a lasting impression on the audience.
Speaking on behalf of the Buhari family, Yusuf thanked President Tinubu, the First Lady, the Vice President, and Nigerians for their overwhelming support during the period of mourning.
“Your visits, your calls, your prayers, they meant the world to us. They honoured our father’s memory. He was more than a politician. To many, he was a father, a friend, and a symbol of selfless service'” Yusuf said, visibly moved.
He ended his remarks with a tearful yet composed farewell: “Thank you, Daddy. Thank you, Mr. President. Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”
The tribute has since drawn wide admiration from citizens and commentators, who hailed Yusuf’s calm demeanour and emotional depth. Social media users praised the younger Buhari for his humility and quiet dignity during the mourning period.
President Tinubu announced during the event that the University of Maiduguri would be renamed Muhammadu Buhari University, in honour of the late leader’s commitment to education and peace in the North-East.
Flags were ordered to fly at half-mast across the country for three days, and special prayers were held in mosques and churches nationwide.
