(PRESS STATEMENT)
CONDOLENCE MESSAGE BY LIEUTENANT GENERAL FARUK YAHAYA (RTD), CFR, ZARUMAN SOKOTO, FORMER CHIEF OF ARMY STAFF, NIGERIAN ARMY, ON THE PASSING OF PRESIDENT MUHAMMADU BUHARI, GCFR
It is with solemn submission to the will of Allah SWT, deep sorrow and profound respect that I mourn the passing of His Excellency, President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, former President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, who departed this life at the age of 82 in London.
President Buhari’s death is an immeasurable loss to Nigeria and the world.
His life exemplified honesty, integrity, discipline, and patriotism.
He led with simplicity and a resolute commitment to national service.
His place in the history of our great nation is firmly cemented, and his legacy will continue to guide generations yet unborn.
I remain forever grateful for the trust he reposed in me when, in 2021, he appointed me as the Chief of Army Staff, Nigerian Army on 27 May 2021, at the rank of Major General and subsequently promoted to the rank of Lieutenant General and gave the mandate to continue the fight against insurgency and other security threats across the country.
Throughout my tenure as the Chief of Army Staff, Nigerian Army, President Buhari provided me with strategic direction, consistent support, and the enabling environment to succeed, particularly in the fight against Boko Haram, banditry, and kidnapping.
Under his leadership, the Nigerian Army became more professional, better equipped, and more effectively trained to tackle contemporary security challenges.
I am proud of the accomplishments recorded during my tenure.
These achievements are directly attributed to President Buhari’s visionary leadership, guidance and commitment to national security.
In this moment of grief, I extend my deepest condolences to the Buhari family, His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, the Emir of Daura, the good people of the Daura Emirate, the Government and people of Katsina State, all Nigerians, and indeed the global community that admired and respected President Buhari’s principled life.
Nigeria has lost a patriot. Africa has lost a statesman. Humanity has lost a man of honour. May Almighty Allah grant his soul eternal rest and reward his noble deeds with Aljannatul Firdaus, amen.
E-Signed:
Lieutenant General Faruk Yahaya (rtd), CFR
Zaruman Sokoto,
Former Chief of Army Staff
13th July 2025
