UN Secretary-General António Guterres has paid tribute to late former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari, describing him as a steadfast leader committed to peace, regional stability, and multilateralism.
Guterres signed the condolence register at Nigeria House in New York on Friday, extending the UN’s sympathies to Buhari’s family and Nigerians.
He lauded Buhari’s contributions to Africa’s security and democratic governance, noting his crucial role in stabilising West Africa during turbulent times.
“President Buhari was a strong supporter of the United Nations and a consistent advocate of global cooperation,” Guterres said.
Reflecting on their working relationship, the UN chief described Buhari as “a true servant-leader” whose legacy would inspire future generations.
Nigeria’s UN envoy, Mr Syndoph Endoni, thanked Guterres, noting the gesture reflected Buhari’s global stature.
Buhari, who ruled Nigeria as a military leader in the 1980s and as a civilian president from 2015 to 2023, died in a London hospital at age 82. He was buried in Daura on Tuesday.
The condolence visit solidifies Buhari’s legacy as an influential African voice on the world stage.
