President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has officially renamed the University of Maiduguri in Borno State as Muhammadu Buhari University, in tribute to the late former President Muhammadu Buhari.
The announcement came on Thursday during a special Federal Executive Council (FEC) session held at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, in honour of the 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,” President Tinubu declared at the conclusion of the session.
In a heartfelt tribute, Tinubu praised Buhari as “a good man, a decent man, an honourable man,” whose legacy of patriotism, discipline, and moral integrity would endure through generations.
“President Buhari was not a perfect man—no leader is— but he was, in every sense, a good and honourable man,” Tinubu said. “His legacy will be debated, as all legacies are, but his incorruptibility, moral strength, and character in public life will never be forgotten.”
Reflecting on Buhari’s years of service, both in military and civilian roles, Tinubu lauded his simplicity and humility, noting that he resisted the allure of power and remained true to principle over popularity.
“He stood ramrod straight, unswayed by power, undistracted by praise, and unafraid of solitude. His courage was quiet, his patriotism expressed more in action than in words,” Tinubu added.
He also recalled their political alliance that led to the 2015 election victory, marking Nigeria’s first democratic transfer of power between political parties.
“We stood together, alongside others from all parts of Nigeria, to form a historic alliance. When he became our first elected president, he led with dignity and bore the weight of leadership with grace.”
Tinubu commended Buhari’s humility after leaving office, noting that he returned to his hometown in Daura without seeking to wield influence behind the scenes.
“He did not seek to control from the shadows. He lived out his days with quiet submission to God’s will—just as he lived during his time on earth.”
The President also thanked the Inter-Ministerial Committee and Governor Dikko Radda of Katsina State for organising a befitting state funeral within 48 hours, describing the opportunity to lead Buhari’s burial procession as a “profound honour.”
In conclusion, Tinubu offered a moving 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 generations of Nigerians to serve with courage, conviction, and humility. Thank you, President Buhari. Nigeria will remember you.”
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