Tears and Tributes: Buhari’s Family Praises Tinubu, Global Leaders for Unmatched Support

The family of the late President Muhammadu Buhari has extended heartfelt appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, First Lady Remi Tinubu, and millions of Nigerians at home and abroad for their overwhelming show of support in the wake of Buhari’s death.

In an official message conveyed by Malam Mamman Daura, the eldest family member, and released through former presidential spokesman Garba Shehu, the family acknowledged the solidarity demonstrated by Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, and several members of the cabinet during the mourning period both in Nigeria and the United Kingdom. According to iReporter Online, the family was especially moved by the presidential gesture of declaring a public holiday and renaming the University of Maiduguri in Buhari’s honour.

The family expressed profound gratitude to international dignitaries, including King Charles III of England, the United Nations Secretary-General, Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed, the African Union chairperson, and ECOWAS heads of state, all of whom conveyed condolences either personally or through official channels.

According to iReporter Online, the Buhari family described the passing of the former Nigerian leader as a loss so great that words could hardly capture its depth, but said the flood of kindness from around the globe had provided them with strength and comfort during this difficult period.

Special recognition was given to Vice President Shettima and his wife, along with governors who visited Daura and the UK, notably those of Katsina, Borno, Adamawa, Lagos, Kano, Imo, Kwara, Bauchi, Sokoto, Kebbi, and Nasarawa. Former governors, including Peter Obi, were also thanked for their messages of sympathy.

Expressions of gratitude were extended to ex-Vice Presidents Atiku Abubakar, Namadi Sambo, Yemi Osinbajo, and Ambassador Babagana Kingibe, as well as Senate President Godswill Akpabio, House Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, and several other lawmakers.

According to iReporter Online, the family also acknowledged past and current senior officials in government, including Secretary to the Government of the Federation Senator George Akume, his predecessor Boss Mustapha, Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila, former Chief of Staff Ibrahim Gambari, and members of Buhari’s former cabinets.

Deep appreciation was shown to traditional rulers across Nigeria and neighboring countries, including the Sultan of Sokoto, Shehu of Borno, Emir of Gwandu, and the host Emirs of Katsina and Daura, for their presence and support. The family also praised the turnout of religious and community leaders from all faiths, women’s groups, youth, civil society, and political leaders of all stripes.

In addition, the family extended thanks to members of Nigeria’s security and intelligence community, military and police authorities, civil servants, and the media for their solidarity.

Business tycoons who visited Daura—such as Aliko Dangote, Abdul Samad Rabiu, Muhammadu Indimi, Dahiru Mangal, Kola Adesina, and Nasiru Danu—were also recognised for their sympathy and presence during the mourning.

“We are grateful to every Nigerian, and to nations and missions who stood with us. All of Nigeria came out in full force to mourn Buhari, offer prayers, and show support. Your presence has deeply moved us,” the family stated.

“Please continue to remember us in your prayers as we navigate this period. May Almighty Allah bless and reward everyone,” the message concluded.