Prominent Nigerians, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and several state governors, have expressed deep sorrow over the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari, describing his death as a monumental loss to the nation.

Shortly after Buhari’s former spokesperson, Mallam Garba Shehu, announced his passing in London on Sunday, the presidency released an official statement signed by Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.

According to the statement, President Tinubu has spoken with the former First Lady, Aisha Buhari, to personally offer his condolences. The President also directed Vice President Kashim Shettima and Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila to travel to the United Kingdom to accompany the late president’s body back to Nigeria.

In a separate statement, the Northern States Governors’ Forum (NSGF) paid glowing tribute to Buhari, describing him as a symbol of integrity, discipline, and national service.

The forum’s condolence message, personally signed by NSGF Chairman and Gombe State Governor, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya (CON), reflected on Buhari’s remarkable public life, from his early military career, to his leadership as military Head of State (1984–1985), and his return as a democratically elected president who served two terms from 2015 to 2023.

“President Muhammadu Buhari was an iconic figure whose life embodied discipline, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to the service of Nigeria,” Governor Yahaya stated.

He noted that Buhari’s legacy as a patriot and statesman will continue to inspire future generations.

“To us in the Northern Governors’ Forum, President Buhari was not just a national icon, but also a mentor and moral compass who stood firm on the principles of accountability, transparency, and good governance,” the statement continued.

“Buhari mentored with humility, governed with courage, and lived a life marked by simplicity and patriotism. His death has created a huge vacuum that will be deeply felt across every sector of our national life.”

The forum concluded with prayers for the repose of the former president’s soul, asking Almighty Allah to grant him eternal rest in Aljannatul Firdaus.

Further tributes are expected from other stakeholders across the country and abroad as the nation prepares to receive the late leader’s remains.