ABUJA – 13TH JULY 2025
The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Gwabin Musa, OFR, has joined millions of mourners across the globe to grieve the passing of Nigeria’s former President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, His Excellency Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR.
In a condolence statement signed by the Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, the Chief of Defence Staff conveyed heartfelt sympathies on behalf of himself, the Service Chiefs, and the entire personnel of the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN). He extended his condolences to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, the bereaved Buhari family, and the entire nation over what he described as the loss of “a revered elder statesman, a patriot, and a gallant senior officer.”
General Musa paid glowing tribute to the late President Buhari, describing him as a man of rare discipline, unwavering integrity, and steadfast dedication to the peace, progress, and unity of the Nigerian nation.
“President Muhammadu Buhari lived a life of service both in uniform and in democracy. His contributions to national development and his unshakable stance on integrity and patriotism have left an enduring legacy in Nigeria’s history,” General Musa said.
He further described the late leader as an incorruptible statesman and a torchbearer of prudence and simplicity, whose leadership style was defined by transparency, sacrifice, and nation-first principles.
“President Buhari was a symbol of dedication to national service,” the CDS noted. “He fought relentlessly for the unity and indivisibility of our great country. His courage, principles, and zero tolerance for indiscipline will continue to inspire generations.”
General Musa also highlighted Buhari’s strict adherence to the rule of law both as a military Head of State and as a democratically elected President describing it as a defining hallmark of his leadership. According to him, these values remain not only relevant but also worthy of emulation by present and future leaders.
In his closing remarks, the Defence Chief prayed for the peaceful repose of the former President’s soul and asked Almighty Allah to grant his family, friends, and the nation at large the strength and fortitude to bear what he termed an irreparable loss.
“Nigeria has lost a father figure. The Armed Forces has lost a gallant commander. The world has lost a true African icon,” General Musa concluded.
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