Senator Basheer Lado, the Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Senate Matters, has described the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari as a major loss to Nigeria and a deeply personal blow. In a heartfelt statement he personally signed and released on Thursday, Lado paid tribute to Buhari’s lasting impact on his personal life, career, and national development.
He recalled Buhari’s powerful influence, describing him as a man of integrity, humility, and unwavering commitment to Nigeria’s unity and progress. According to Lado, Buhari was more than a national leader; he was a trusted mentor, a father figure, and a family friend whose advice helped shape his journey in public service.
Lado expressed gratitude for Buhari’s support during his political career, highlighting moments when the former president congratulated him for joining the All Progressives Congress (APC), and entrusted him with key positions including Federal Commissioner at the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants, and Internally Displaced Persons, and Director-General of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP).
He also reflected on a major turning point during his time in public service, when he informed Buhari about plans to build housing for displaced persons. Buhari’s encouraging response — “I am proud of this initiative, and I bless it” — motivated him to push forward with the development of resettlement cities across Nigeria.
Lado spoke of Buhari’s close bond with his family, especially during times of personal loss, and mentioned the former president’s willingness to serve as Guest of Honour at a Qur’anic recitation competition held in memory of Hajiya Abibatu Mogaji, mother of President Tinubu. Although Buhari could not attend due to a medical appointment in London, he sent a touching letter and a representative, which Lado said demonstrated his loyalty and deep sense of responsibility.
Describing Buhari’s entire life as one of “sacrifice, simplicity, and service,” from his military years to his role as a civilian president, Lado extended condolences to the late leader’s family, associates, and the nation. He concluded by praying for Allah’s mercy on Buhari’s soul and eternal peace in Aljannatul Firdaus.
