Lai Mohammed hails Buhari’s integrity, humanity at first anniversary tribute
Former Minister of Information and Culture, Lai Mohammed, has described late former President Muhammadu Buhari as an exceptional patriot, incorruptible leader and compassionate humanist whose legacy will continue to inspire generations of Nigerians.
Mohammed spoke in Abuja on Monday during a tribute programme marking the first anniversary of Buhari’s passing, where he reflected on the former president’s leadership style, personal qualities and the trust he placed in those who served under him.
According to the former minister, Buhari’s legacy extended beyond the many public offices he held to the values of integrity, humility, patriotism and humanity that defined his life.
“Beyond these impressive credentials were the qualities that truly distinguished him: his unwavering patriotism, unquestionable integrity, disarming humility, honesty and, above all, his profound humanity,” Mohammed said.
He noted that Buhari’s career spanned virtually every level of military and political leadership, including service as Military Governor, Federal Commissioner, Chairman of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, member of the Supreme Military Council, Military Head of State, Executive Chairman of the Petroleum Trust Fund, presidential candidate and eventually a two-term democratically elected president.
Mohammed said that throughout the nearly eight years he served as spokesman for the Buhari administration, the late president consistently demonstrated concern for his welfare despite the demands of leading the country.
He recalled that Buhari would often ask how he was coping with the pressures of the job and once publicly remarked, “I pity Lai Mohammed,” a statement he said reflected the former president’s empathy.
The former minister also cited what he described as Buhari’s remarkable trust in his aides, recalling a 2015 media tour of liberated communities in Borno State organised to demonstrate that Boko Haram had been driven from territories it once controlled.
