IN an emotionally charged moment at the Federal Executive Council (FEC) Chamber in Abuja on Thursday, Yusuf Buhari, son of the late former President Muhammadu Buhari, delivered a heartfelt message of appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Nigerian government, and the Nigerian people for the profound honours accorded to his father.
News Point Nigeria report that the special FEC session was convened in memory of Buhari, who passed away in London on Sunday, July 13, 2025, at the age of 82. His body was flown back to Nigeria and buried on Tuesday in Daura, Katsina State, in a state funeral attended by President Tinubu and other national dignitaries.
Addressing the expanded council gathering alongside his siblings, Yusuf fought back tears as he thanked President Tinubu for giving his father a burial that, in his words, “befitted the dignity and legacy of a true statesman.”
“Your support symbolises a great honour to my father’s memory,” he said, his voice trembling with emotion.
“It has shown that he was regarded far more than just a politician. He was regarded as a friend and a father.”
Yusuf went on to extend his deep gratitude to members of the Federal Executive Council, the National Assembly, and the Governor of Katsina State, Dikko Radda, who coordinated much of the state burial in Buhari’s hometown of Daura.
“To all members of the Federal Executive Council, for the care and befitting burial accorded to our late father, we appreciate you all.
I also wish to thank the Senate President, Speaker of the House of Representatives, and all the distinguished and honorable members of the National Assembly for honouring his memory during the state burial in Daura.”
The late president’s son further acknowledged the visits, calls, and prayers of Nigerians from across the country.
“Your visits, calls, and prayers symbolise a great honour to the memory of our late father, and we’re sincerely grateful for all the support and solidarity extended to the family.”
In perhaps the most touching part of his tribute, Yusuf visibly moved repeated his final words to his father with deep reverence and emotion:
“Thank you, daddy. Thank you, Daddy. Thank you, Daddy.
May Allah continue to bless, provide, and protect you throughout your tenure,” he added, turning to Tinubu with sincere gratitude.
His words were met with solemn nods and muted applause by those in attendance, many of whom were visibly moved by the moment.
Muhammadu Buhari, a former military Head of State (1983–1985) and Nigeria’s democratically elected president from 2015 to 2023, passed away following a brief illness in the UK.
His death marked the end of a remarkable career spanning military leadership, political opposition, and eight years at the helm of Nigeria’s Fourth Republic.
President Tinubu, who succeeded Buhari in 2023, led tributes across the country, describing him as a leader defined by discipline, integrity, and an unwavering belief in national unity.
During Tuesday’s state burial, Buhari’s flag-draped casket was received by Tinubu and laid to rest after funeral prayers attended by top political, religious, and military dignitaries.
As Yusuf Buhari spoke at the FEC chamber on Thursday, he echoed the feelings of millions of Nigerians who continue to reflect on Buhari’s impact on national security, anti-corruption, and identity as a nationalist figure.
The state burial and tributes have united Nigerians across political, ethnic, and religious divides a testament to the profound influence Buhari had on national life.
Yusuf’s words tearful yet dignified served as both a tribute to a father and a final farewell on behalf of the Buhari family.
“May Allah continue to bless us all,” Yusuf concluded, bowing his head as prayers were said once again for the repose of his father’s soul.
As Nigeria continues its week of national mourning, the memory of Muhammadu Buhari, the quiet general, remains etched in the hearts of many not just for his role in government, but as a father, mentor, and symbol of discipline and service.