Abuja, Nigeria — July 17, 2025

The Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, has paid an emotional tribute to Nigeria’s former President, Muhammadu Buhari, describing him as a man of discipline, integrity, and unwavering commitment to national unity and development.

Umahi made these remarks on Wednesday while signing the condolence register at the Federal Ministry of Works headquarters, Mabushi, Abuja.

“A Man Of Integrity And Selfless Service”

Reflecting on Buhari’s passing, Umahi said:

“I personally believed that such a man with so much discipline, integrity, honesty, and selfless service to humanity would live up to 100 years.”

The former Ebonyi State governor highlighted Buhari’s enduring legacy as a former military Head of State and two-term civilian President, noting his impact on governance and infrastructure development across Nigeria.

Personal Bond And Fond Memories

Umahi recalled his personal relationship with Buhari, sharing anecdotes that revealed the late leader’s humility and humor.

“He called me and said he was missing Abakaliki rice. That’s the kind of bond we had,” the minister said, recalling how Buhari frequently requested the delicacy even after leaving office.

Umahi also appreciated Buhari’s support during his governorship, particularly his intervention in ensuring the emergence of the current Ebonyi State Governor:

“He stood by us when certain forces tried to stop the present Governor. He personally called the party’s national chairman and insisted it had to be the current Governor.”

Buhari’s Ebonyi Visit And Simplicity

The Minister reminisced about Buhari’s visit to Ebonyi State, where he commissioned multiple projects from morning till night.

“While I was escorting him to his room, he joked, ‘Governor, you know how to punish someone,’” Umahi recounted, describing Buhari as humorous, humble, and selfless.

He further cited Buhari’s gesture of renaming the Ebonyi airport, initially named after him, to honor the late Senator Chuba Okadigbo:

“That’s who he was, always thinking of others,” Umahi added.

Nation Mourns A Great Loss

Umahi expressed condolences to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Buhari’s family, associates, and all Nigerians, calling his death a monumental loss to the nation.

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He praised President Tinubu for the respect accorded to his predecessor, noting Buhari’s own words during Tinubu’s second anniversary:

• “President Buhari acknowledged that President Tinubu helped him actualize his destiny of becoming Nigeria’s leader,” Umahi said.

The minister prayed for fortitude for all Nigerians to bear the loss and affirmed that Buhari’s contributions will never be forgotten.

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