‘He Was a Leader of Quiet Strength and Discipline’, Tinubu Eulogises Buhari at Biography Launch
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has paid glowing tribute to late President Muhammadu Buhari, describing him as a leader whose legacy was defined by quiet strength, discipline and personal integrity, at the public presentation of a biography chronicling Buhari’s life and leadership.
Tinubu spoke on Monday in Abuja at the launch of the book From Soldier to Statesman: The Legacy of Muhammadu Buhari, an event that drew political leaders, public officials, diplomats and members of civil society to reflect on the late former president’s impact on Nigeria’s political history.
In his remarks, Tinubu said Buhari was not a leader who sought applause or grand gestures, but one who governed with restraint, personal discipline and a deep sense of duty to the nation. He noted that Buhari’s strength lay in his ability to remain firm in his convictions, even when such positions were unpopular.
“The measure of leadership is not in noise or spectacle, but in character,” Tinubu said. “President Buhari was a man of quiet strength — disciplined in conduct, modest in lifestyle, and unwavering in his belief that public office is a sacred trust.”
The president reflected on Buhari’s journey from a military officer to a democratically elected leader, describing it as a rare transition that demonstrated growth, resilience and commitment to national service.
He said the biography captures both the struggles and achievements of Buhari’s leadership, offering future generations an opportunity to learn from his experiences.
Tinubu also recalled his long political association with Buhari, particularly their collaboration in building the coalition that led to the historic 2015 election victory, which ended years of one-party dominance in Nigeria.
According to him, that moment marked a turning point in the country’s democratic evolution and showcased Buhari’s determination to pursue change through constitutional means.
While acknowledging that Buhari’s leadership, like all presidencies, faced challenges and criticism, Tinubu said the former president should be remembered for his integrity, discipline and commitment to fighting corruption and instilling order in public life. He urged Nigerians to view Buhari’s legacy with fairness and balance, recognising both achievements and shortcomings.
The president called on current and future leaders to draw lessons from Buhari’s life, particularly the values of self-discipline, patience, and service above self.
He described the biography not merely as a tribute, but as a historical document that invites reflection on leadership and governance in Nigeria.
Buhari, a retired major general, served as Nigeria’s military head of state between 1983 and 1985 before returning as a civilian president from 2015 to 2023.
He passed away earlier in 2025, prompting nationwide tributes and reflections on his role in shaping Nigeria’s political and democratic journey.
The biography launch marked another chapter in the national conversation on Buhari’s legacy, underscoring his enduring influence on Nigeria’s leadership culture and political history.
