Mamman Daura, the eldest family member of late President Muhammadu Buhari, has expressed heartfelt gratitude for the overwhelming support and solidarity shown to the Buhari family following the former president’s recent passing.
In a statement released through Garba Shehu, Daura acknowledged the strength provided by the participation of Nigerians from all walks of life during this period of mourning. “The support and solidarity we have received from every corner of Nigeria have made this sad moment bearable,” he said.
Daura especially appreciated the presence and comfort extended by President Bola Tinubu and First Lady Remi Tinubu, noting that their gestures gave enormous solace to the bereaved family. He further commended the unity and empathy displayed by the Cabinet, members of the National and State Assemblies, both serving and former state governors, alongside community and religious leaders.
“It is truly comforting to receive such support from the President, the Vice President Kashim Shettima—who traveled to the United Kingdom—and here in Daura, for the days he and the ministers spent with us during the mourning period,” Daura added. “Their presence has instilled confidence in all of us to face this loss with courage.”
Daura singled out Presidential honours and actions such as declaring a public holiday and renaming the University of Maiduguri after Muhammadu Buhari, describing them as deeply thoughtful gestures that brought comfort to the family.
The appreciation extended to world leaders who reached out as well. Daura gave special mention to His Majesty King Charles III of England, the Secretary-General of the United Nations and Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed, the Chairman of the African Union, the ECOWAS Heads of State and Government committee, and Nigeria’s former Head of State, Abdulsalami Abubakar, for their personal involvement and condolences.
Reflecting on the loss, Daura remarked, “Though the death of President Buhari is an irreparable loss, the general positive reaction from Nigeria and the world serves as a balm to the family he has left behind.”
Daura also expressed thanks to Vice President Kashim Shettima and his wife, all state governors, and various dignitaries and well-wishers who visited the family both in the UK and Daura.
He further extended his appreciation to past Vice Presidents Atiku Abubakar, Namadi Sambo, Professor Yemi Osinbajo, and Ambassador Babagana Kingibe. Leaders of the National Assembly were also commended including Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajuddeen Abbas, Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, and the other lawmakers at national and state levels.
Administrative leaders were also acknowledged: “We sincerely thank the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, his predecessor Boss Mustapha, Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila and his predecessor Professor Ibrahim Gambari, and all cabinet members from both current and previous administrations for their support.”
Traditional leaders received high praise as well, especially the Sultan of Sokoto, the Shehu of Borno, the Emir of Gwandu, and the host emirs of Katsina and Daura, along with many other emirs and chiefs from across Nigeria and neighbouring countries who visited or sent their representatives.
Nigerian business titans were not left out, with Daura singling out Alhaji Aliko Dangote, Abdul Samad Isyaka Rabiu, Muhammadu Indimi, Dahiru Mangal, Kola Adesina, and Nasiru Danu for their personal condolence visits to Daura.
He concluded by recognizing the entire Nigerian populace and members of the international community represented by diplomatic missions in Nigeria, expressing that the united support was palpable at President Buhari’s burial. “All of Nigeria came out in force to bury Buhari, to condole with us, and to pray for him. We are deeply grateful for the condolences, the messages, and the prayers. We are thankful to all.”
“Please continue to remember us in your prayers as the family goes through this period. May Almighty Allah bless and reward you all,” Daura stated.
