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Vice President Kashim Shettima, representing President Bola Tinubu, former Head of State General Yakubu Gowon, incumbent and former governors, traditional rulers, former Heads of State, leaders of the National Assembly, religious leaders, members of the diplomatic community, captains of industry, political leaders from across the country, senior public servants and political heavyweights across party divides gathered in Abuja to mark the first anniversary of the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari.
Those present included former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Boss Mustapha; former National Chairmen of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Abdullahi Adamu and Umar Ganduje; and governors including AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara State, Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State, Babagana Zulum of Borno State, Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State and Malam Umar Namadi of Jigawa State, among others.
Others included former and serving ministers such as Muhammad Badaru Abubakar, Simon Lalong, Chukwuemeka Nwajiuba and Rauf Aregbesola; former Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Usman Baba; former Chief of Defence Staff, Lucky Irabor; former Chief of Army Staff, Tukur Yusufu Buratai; and senators including Adeleke Olorunnimbe Mamora and Ahmed Lawan, among many other dignitaries.
Conspicuously missing were almost all the South-East governors and Buhari’s former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, among others.
In his introductory remarks, Chairman of the Planning Committee, Boss Mustapha, said:
“We gather here to mark the first anniversary of the passing of our leader and former President Muhammadu Buhari, who departed this life on July 13 last year.
“As Chairman of the Central Organising Committee, it is my singular honour to warmly welcome many distinguished Nigerians who served alongside the late President during his two terms in office.
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“Today is not merely about recalling the passing of a former President. It is an occasion to reflect on a life of service and to preserve for future generations the memory of a man who devoted much of his adult life to the service of Nigeria.
“His passing came as a profound shock to the nation and elicited an extraordinary outpouring of grief across Nigeria, Africa, and many parts of the world. The depth of that affection and respect is reflected in the Book of Tributes and Condolences that shall formally be presented at this memorial event.
“His funeral in Daura brought together his successor, President Tinubu, former Presidents and former Heads of State, delegations from friendly nations and international organisations, elected public officials, traditional rulers, religious leaders, and representatives of diverse groups and communities from across Nigeria.
“It also drew an overwhelming number of ordinary Nigerians, young and old, men and women, including many of the poor and vulnerable, whose welfare always occupied a special place in his heart.
“The breadth and diversity of that gathering, much like the distinguished assembly here today, speak eloquently to the place President Muhammadu Buhari occupies in our national history. People of different political persuasions, faiths, generations, and backgrounds have come together in respect for a life that left an indelible mark on our country.
“For those of us who were privileged to work closely with him, today’s remembrance is not only a national occasion; it is also deeply personal. We remember a leader whose convictions shaped the decisions he took, whose sense of duty remained unwavering, and whose commitment to the Nigerian state defined his years in public service.
“Your presence here today is a powerful tribute to his memory. It is also a profound expression of solidarity with his family, especially Her Excellency, Mrs Aisha Muhammadu Buhari, who is here with her children and other members of the family,” he said.
