President Bola Tinubu has officially renamed the University of Maiduguri in Borno State as Muhammadu Buhari University in honour of the late former president, who died on Sunday, July 13, at the age of 82.
“May we now adopt the University of Maiduguri as the Muhammadu Buhari University,” Tinubu declared during a special Federal Executive Council session held Thursday at the Presidential Villa, Abuja. The session was convened to pay tribute to Buhari’s life and legacy.
Describing the late leader as “a good man, a decent man, an honourable man,” Tinubu praised Buhari for his unwavering sense of discipline, patriotism, and moral clarity. While acknowledging Buhari’s imperfections, Tinubu said his commitment to Nigeria’s service and ethical public conduct set him apart.
“President Buhari was not a perfect man — no leader is but the moral authority he embodied, the incorruptibility he upheld, and the quiet dignity with which he served will not be forgotten.”
Tinubu reflects on Buhari’s years in leadership
Reflecting on Buhari’s years in both military and democratic leadership, Tinubu highlighted his humility and resistance to the perks of power.
“He stood, always, ramrod straight — unmoved by temptation, unswayed by applause, and unafraid of the solitude that comes with doing what is right rather than what is popular,” he said. “His patriotism wasn’t loud; it was expressed more in action than words.”
Tinubu also recalled their historic political collaboration, which culminated in the 2015 general elections—the first time power peacefully shifted from one ruling party to another in Nigeria’s history.
“We stood together, he and I,” Tinubu recalled. “With allies from across regions and political backgrounds, we forged a coalition that made Nigeria’s first real democratic transition possible. And when Buhari became President, he led with restraint and governed with a quiet dignity.”
Praising Buhari’s withdrawal from politics after leaving office, Tinubu noted how the former leader returned to Daura without clinging to power behind the scenes.
“When his tenure ended, he went home to Daura—not to pull strings or issue commands from the background, but to live in peace, content with his service,” Tinubu said. “Even in death, he remained calm and dignified. No complaints, no drama. Just quiet submission to the will of God.”
The President also commended the Inter-Ministerial Committee and Katsina State Governor Dikko Radda for coordinating a swift and dignified state funeral, saying it was a “profound honour” to lead the final rites in Daura.
He concluded his eulogy with a solemn prayer:
“Mai Gaskiya, the People’s General, the Farmer President—your duty is done. May Almighty Allah forgive your shortcomings and grant you Aljannah Firdaus. May your life continue to inspire Nigerians to serve with courage, purpose, and selflessness. Thank you, President Buhari. Nigeria will remember you.”
