SAUDI Arabia’s top leadership has extended heartfelt condolences to the government and people of Nigeria following the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari.
Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud both sent formal cables of condolence to Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, expressing sorrow over the passing of the former leader.
King Salman conveyed his “deepest condolences and sincere sympathy” to President Tinubu, the Nigerian people, and the family of the deceased in a message released on Monday.
Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman echoed the sentiments in a separate cable, highlighting the respect and historical ties between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Nigeria.
“I extend to Your Excellency, the people of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and the family of the deceased my deepest condolences and sincere sympathy,” the Crown Prince stated.
He praised Buhari’s decades of public service, particularly his leadership in strengthening Nigeria’s political stability and national security.
“President Buhari was a leader of great integrity and dedication, and his contributions to Nigeria’s development will be remembered with respect,” he said.
Muhammadu Buhari, who served as Nigeria’s president from 2015 to 2023 and previously as a military ruler in the 1980s, passed away on Sunday at the age of 82 after a brief illness.
Widely known for his anti-corruption efforts and battle against insurgency in northeastern Nigeria, Buhari leaves behind a legacy of firm governance and nationalistic resolve.
President Bola Tinubu, Buhari’s successor, hailed him as a “patriot and statesman who placed national interest above all else”.
The Nigerian government has declared a period of national mourning. A state funeral is scheduled to be held on Tuesday in Buhari’s hometown of Daura, Katsina State, with dignitaries and representatives from around the world expected to attend.
