By Peace Udugba
The Federal Government on Monday announced plans to establish a foundation in honour of former President Muhammadu Buhari, one year after his death, to preserve his legacy and promote the values of integrity, discipline and selfless service.
The announcement was made during a prayer session held in Abuja to commemorate the first anniversary of Buhari’s passing.
Former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Boss Mustapha, who disclosed the initiative, said the foundation was conceived by the late president’s family and close associates as a lasting tribute to his life and service to Nigeria.
Mustapha said the memorial gathering was not only to honour Buhari’s memory but also to reflect on his contributions to nation-building and inspire future generations to uphold the ideals he represented.
He noted that the proposed foundation would serve as a platform for preserving Buhari’s legacy while encouraging leaders and citizens to emulate his commitment to honesty, discipline and patriotism.
“It is our collective responsibility as leaders across different sectors and Nigerians in general to preserve his legacies and emulate his virtues in the interest of the country’s peaceful coexistence,” Mustapha said.
Representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the event, Vice President Kashim Shettima described Buhari as a patriot and statesman whose dedication to Nigeria remained an inspiration even after his death.
Reading the President’s message, Shettima said Buhari’s transition from military Head of State to democratically elected President underscored his remarkable place in Nigeria’s history.
He said the late leader served the country with courage, conviction and unwavering patriotism, always placing national interest above personal gain.
“President Buhari gave everything he had to this country, and he gave it without reservation. He served with courage, conviction and a patriotism that never asked what the nation could return to him,” Tinubu said.
The President urged political leaders and public office holders to embrace the values of honesty, simplicity and self-discipline, describing them as Buhari’s enduring legacy.
He also assured former First Lady Aisha Buhari and the Buhari family of the Federal Government’s continued support while praying for the peaceful repose of the former president’s soul.
Former Head of State, Gen. Yakubu Gowon (retd.), said the nationwide outpouring of grief following Buhari’s death reflected the respect he earned across Nigeria and beyond.
Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, said Buhari’s leadership style and commitment to public service continue to inspire governance in the state, adding that his virtues should be preserved for future generations.
Representing Katsina State Governor Dikko Radda, Deputy Governor Farouk Lawal Jobe thanked President Tinubu for the support shown to Buhari’s family and the people of Katsina during the former president’s burial.
He urged Nigerians to remain committed to democracy, good governance and peaceful coexistence.
Prayers for the repose of Buhari’s soul were offered by Archbishop Emeritus of the Abuja Catholic Archdiocese, John Cardinal Onaiyekan, the Imam of the National Mosque, Sheikh Abdulkadir Al-Salman Sholagberu, alongside other religious and traditional leaders.
