Indian PM Modi Mourns Buhari, Pens Heartfelt Tribute
Tributes continue to pour in from world leaders following the death of Nigeria’s former President, Muhammadu Buhari, with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi being one of the latest to honour the legacy of the late Nigerian statesman.
In a statement shared on his official X (formerly Twitter) handle on Monday, Prime Minister Modi expressed deep sorrow over Buhari’s passing, describing him as a man of wisdom, warmth, and unwavering commitment to international cooperation, especially between India and Nigeria.
“Deeply saddened by the passing of former President of Nigeria Muhammadu Buhari,” Modi posted. “I fondly recall our meetings and conversations on various occasions. His wisdom, warmth and unwavering commitment to india- Nigeria friendship stood out. I join the 1.4 billion people of India in extending our heartfelt condolences to his family, the people and the government of Nigeria.”
Modi and Buhari had interacted on several occasions during Buhari’s tenure as Nigeria’s leader from 2015 to 2023. Their engagements often focused on enhancing bilateral relations, especially in areas such as trade, energy, technology, and education. Nigeria, being one of India’s largest trading partners in Africa, maintained a cordial and strategic relationship with New Delhi throughout Buhari’s administration.
Diplomatic analysts have noted that Buhari’s presidency saw a significant strengthening of India-Nigeria ties, with both nations cooperating in multilateral forums and deepening economic and cultural partnerships.
His administration supported various Indian investments in Nigeria and welcomed technical collaborations in sectors such as pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and information technology.
Modi’s tribute adds to a growing chorus of international condolences that have followed the announcement of Buhari’s death. The former Nigerian president died in a London hospital after a prolonged illness.
His passing has prompted mourning across Nigeria and expressions of respect from global leaders, African Union representatives, and members of the international diplomatic community.
President Buhari, a former military head of state who later returned as a democratically elected president, was known for his firm stance on anti-corruption and regional security.
His foreign policy emphasized non-alignment, economic cooperation, and strengthening ties with both regional and global partners.
As preparations continue for his burial in Nigeria, many continue to reflect on his leadership, both within the country and on the global stage.
Modi’s message, warmly received by many Nigerians on social media, underscores the international impact of Buhari’s presidency and his personal role in shaping Nigeria’s image abroad.
India and Nigeria are expected to continue fostering their long-standing diplomatic relationship in the spirit of mutual respect and cooperation that Buhari strongly advocated.
