United Nations Deputy Secretary-General, Amina Mohammed, has paid a heartfelt tribute to former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari, describing him as a disciplined leader who deeply believed in his country and its people.
Speaking during a condolence visit to the Nigeria House in New York on Monday, Mohammed reflected on her time working with Buhari both as Minister of Environment and during her earlier role at the Petroleum Trust Fund.
“He was a man of discipline, a man of conviction, a man of, as we say in Hausa, kishin kasa (patriotism),” she said.
Mohammed praised Buhari’s steadfast commitment to national service, noting that his leadership was anchored in strong values and faith in the Nigerian people.
“He was a true patriot who believed in his country, believed in his people and did the best that he could,” she said. “When we were frustrated, he would remind us that we are serving humanity, that we are serving people, and so we must have the patience, we must have the faith.”
She recalled Buhari’s frequent encouragement to remain focused and sincere in service: “That we must continue to try to do the best, and we will be judged by our intentions.”
Reflecting on the enduring lessons from Buhari’s leadership, Mohammed added: “This is when you dig deep to remember what he taught you. We will always stand on his shoulders for many reasons.”
Concluding her tribute, Mohammed expressed solidarity with the late president’s family.
“But today is one of deep sadness where we stand in solidarity with his wife, his children, his family and his daughters, and we continue to pray for him and to pray that he will have Al Jannah Firdaus,” she said.
