At the official presentation of the biography “From Soldier to Statesman: The Legacy of Muhammadu Buhari” by Dr. Charles Omole, President Bola Tinubu paid tribute to the late former President, emphasizing that the measure of leadership is not in offices held, motorcades, or privilege, but in character, integrity, and the values left behind.

Key Messages from Tinubu

• Leadership is tested by what endures after office, not public spectacle.
• Buhari was remembered for his spartan lifestyle, integrity, discipline, and sense of public duty.
• He valued security, infrastructure development, and social justice, focusing on protecting citizens and supporting vulnerable populations.
• Tinubu highlighted their shared political journey, noting Buhari’s role in forging the 2015 coalition that successfully unseated an incumbent president, demonstrating the power of collaboration across differences.
• Buhari’s legacy, according to Tinubu, is humility, consistency, and fidelity to the oath of office, earning respect even from critics.

Tributes from Other Speakers

• Retired General Buba Marwa (NDLEA) described Buhari as a principled soldier and humane leader, recalling personal anecdotes of his integrity, patience, and sense of humor.
• Governor Dikko Umar Radda (Katsina State) praised Buhari for his discipline, accountability, and steadfastness, highlighting his impact on Nigeria’s democratic evolution.

About the Book

• Authored by Dr. Charles Omole, the 600-page biography focuses on Buhari the man, not a detailed policy analysis.
• The work is based on extensive interviews with people who knew Buhari across his life, from birth to death, aiming to capture his principles, temperament, and worldview.
• Omole emphasized that personal integrity must translate into strong systems to prevent state capture, providing lessons for current and future leaders.

High-Profile Attendees

The book presentation was attended by dignitaries including President Bola Tinubu, former First Lady Aisha Buhari, Gambian President Adama Barrow, governors, former service chiefs, security heads, diplomats, and traditional rulers.