Buhari’s family thanks Nigerians, others for support during mourning

The family of the late former President Muhammadu Buhari has expressed profound gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, international dignitaries, and the Nigerian people for the immense show of solidarity during the former leader’s burial and mourning period.

Speaking on behalf of the family on Sunday, Malam Mamman Daura, Buhari’s nephew and the most senior member of the household, acknowledged the outpouring of condolences, tributes, and support from across Nigeria and around the world. The statement was made public by Garba Shehu, Buhari’s longtime aide and former presidential spokesperson.

“It is truly comforting to receive such support from the President and the Vice President, Kashim Shettima, who went to the United Kingdom and later to Daura, together with ministers, during the mourning period. These have instilled confidence in all of us to face this loss with courage,” Daura said.

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He extended special appreciation to President Tinubu for his thoughtful tributes, including the declaration of a national holiday and the renaming of the University of Maiduguri in honour of the late statesman.

The family also acknowledged heartfelt condolences from global leaders such as King Charles III of the United Kingdom, UN Secretary-General António Guterres, Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed, the African Union leadership, and ECOWAS representatives. Former Nigerian Head of State General Abdulsalami Abubakar was also noted for his tribute.

Describing Buhari’s death as “an irreparable loss” and “pain beyond words,” the family said the wave of national and international sympathy has given them strength.

Special gratitude was extended to Vice President Shettima and his wife, governors from across the country, particularly Dikko Umar Radda (Katsina) and Babagana Zulum (Borno), and delegations from states including Lagos, Kaduna, Imo, Kwara, Kano, and others.

Also mentioned were former governors like Peter Obi, and former Vice Presidents Atiku Abubakar, Namadi Sambo, Yemi Osinbajo, and Ambassador Babagana Kingibe. The leadership of the National Assembly, including Senate President Godswill Akpabio, House Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, and Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, were commended for their participation.

Key government officials, including Secretary to the Government of the Federation Senator George Akume and Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila, were recognized, as were former cabinet members, traditional rulers such as the Sultan of Sokoto and the Shehu of Borno, and a wide array of Islamic, Christian, and other faith leaders.

The family also thanked civil society groups, youth and women’s organisations, the media, and the security services for their contributions to the dignified final rites.

From the private sector, notable figures including Alhaji Aliko Dangote, Abdul Samad Rabiu, Alhaji Muhammadu Indimi, Alhaji Dahiru Mangal, Kola Adesina, and Nasiru Danu were appreciated for their support.

“We also take this opportunity to thank the entire citizens of this country and those of other nations represented by their missions in Nigeria. All of Nigeria came out in force to bury Buhari and condole with us and pray for him,” the statement concluded.

The family ended with a prayerful appeal: “May the Almighty Allah bless and reward you all.”