The President of the Nigerian Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has paid glowing tribute to former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari, describing him as a man of remarkable integrity and unwavering discipline who led Nigeria without enriching himself through public office.
Akpabio made these remarks during an expanded session of the Federal Executive Council (FEC) held in honour of the former president at the State House in Abuja on Thursday.
While addressing dignitaries and members of the council, Akpabio highlighted Buhari’s rare commitment to selflessness and patriotism, calling him a soldier-statesman whose leadership style set a high standard for future Nigerian leaders.
“President Buhari believed that discipline mattered. That integrity mattered. That leadership, even when lonely, must be anchored in something greater than power,” Akpabio stated during his speech.
He went on to say that throughout Buhari’s time in office, there was a visible absence of extravagance or personal luxury, which has become a hallmark of many political careers in the country. Instead, Buhari remained focused on governance and national interest.
“Let us be honest, he was tough. He was a soldier who did not flinch under fire, a leader who did not flee from responsibility, and above all, a Nigerian whose loyalty to this nation was never up for sale,” Akpabio remarked.
Akpabio, who also served as Minister of Niger Delta Affairs under Buhari’s administration, reflected on the former president’s values and personal conduct. He noted that even Buhari’s harshest critics often acknowledged his reputation for honesty and modesty.
“His toughness was born not of pride, but of patriotism, a fierce, unrelenting belief that Nigeria, with all its challenges, was still worth fighting for. Whether in khaki or agbada, he remained firm in his belief that Nigeria was worth fighting for,” Akpabio said.
He further described Buhari as a symbol of accountability and moral discipline in leadership, adding that his refusal to embezzle public funds has set a lasting example for both current and future generations of Nigerian politicians.
Akpabio’s remarks have sparked renewed discussions among political observers and the public alike about the role of personal integrity in governance and the long-term impact of Buhari’s leadership style on Nigeria’s political culture.