Former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Boss Mustapha, on Wednesday said late President Muhammadu Buhari would have accomplished much more for Nigeria if he had more time in office, noting that the former leader remained committed to national development until his final days.
Mustapha spoke in Abuja while briefing journalists on preparations for the one-year remembrance, prayers and supplications in honour of the late President, scheduled for July 13, 2026, at the Nigerian Army Conference Centre, Asokoro, Abuja.
The event is being organised by the Central Planning Committee and will bring together Buhari’s family members, political associates, friends, public officials and admirers to commemorate his life and legacy.
According to Mustapha, the programme will feature interfaith and interdenominational prayers, reflecting the values of unity, faith and national cohesion that Buhari upheld throughout his life and public service.
He disclosed that a book titled “Tributes and Condolences in Honour of Muhammadu Buhari” would be unveiled during the event by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. He added that the publication, which contains tributes from world leaders, diplomats and political figures, would be distributed free of charge.
“In its pages, the global community, including heads of state, diplomats and political leaders, remembered the late President as a man of simplicity, resilience and integrity,” Mustapha said.
Speaking on his personal relationship with the late President, the former SGF said Buhari’s death remained a painful loss, describing him as a mentor, father figure and leader whose simplicity and integrity stood out throughout his life.
“I served him for over five years as Secretary to the Government of the Federation. We had personal moments and official moments that remain precious memories. Whenever I reflect on his simplicity, the way he conducted his life, and his commitment to service, I feel I have lost a leader, a father, a mentor and a guiding force,” he said.
Mustapha recalled that he met Buhari about a month before his death and later attempted to see him again when he became ill but was unable to do so.
“I still remember the last dinner I had with him in the United Kingdom. We spent over an hour discussing our tenure, the things we accomplished and the things we hoped to achieve but could not because of time constraints,” he said.
Asked whether Buhari could have done more for the country, Mustapha responded in the affirmative, saying the scale of Nigeria’s challenges and the pace of government processes often limited how quickly reforms and projects could be delivered.
“Nigeria is a large country. When you talk about infrastructure and national development, there were things we wished could be accomplished more quickly.
“But because of the systems and processes in place, many things take time. On all facets of national life, there were things we hoped would be achieved,” he stated.
Mustapha said the remembrance programme was conceived by Buhari’s family, friends and associates as a fitting way to honour the former President on the first anniversary of his passing.
He expressed hope that the occasion would not only celebrate Buhari’s legacy of service but also provide comfort to his family and admirers while encouraging Nigerians to remain united and continue praying for the repose of his soul.
