Nkechinyere Ewa-Okpara
The Honourable Minister of Works, Senator Engr. Nweze David Umahi has paid glowing tribute to the late former President of Nigeria, Muhammadu Buhari, describing him as a man of honour, discipline, and integrity who served the nation with unwavering dedication, fairness, and selflessness.
The Minister made these remarks on 17th July 2025, while signing the condolence register at the Headquarters of the Federal Ministry of Works, Mabushi, Abuja.
In an emotion-laden tribute, Umahi recalled fond memories of the late President, whom he described as humorous, generous, and deeply committed to the unity and progress of Nigeria.
He praised Buhari’s lasting legacies as both a Military Head of State and a democratically elected President, noting that they have left indelible marks on the nation’s developmental history.
“I believed that such a man with so much discipline, integrity, honesty, and selfless service to humanity would live up to 100 years,” the Minister said.
He reminisced about his relationship with the former President, including their shared appreciation for Abakaliki rice. “The last time I spoke with him was during the Salah before this last one. Even after leaving office, I continued to send him Abakaliki rice, and he always called to thank me. He loved it so much and once told me he wasn’t missing Abakaliki rice even outside the office,” Umahi fondly recounted.
He also acknowledged Buhari’s invaluable support for Ebonyi State during his tenure as governor. “He helped Ebonyi State immensely. Even when enemies of progress tried to thwart the emergence of my successor, he intervened personally, calling the national chairman of our party to ensure justice prevailed,” he stated.
Recalling Buhari’s visit to Ebonyi, Umahi said “He started commissioning projects at 9 a.m. and continued until 10 p.m. When I escorted him to his room, he joked, ‘Governor, you know how to punish someone very well,’ and I replied, ‘Sir, you signed for it.’”
He highlighted Buhari’s humility and selflessness, citing how the Ebonyi airport, originally named after Buhari, was later renamed after the late Senator Chuba Okadigbo at Buhari’s behest.
“That’s how selfless he was. I dare say I was the most beloved governor during his time. There was nothing I asked of him that he did not grant whether it was the Paris Club refund, the Anchor Borrowers Programme, or other interventions.”
Expressing deep sorrow over Buhari’s passing, Umahi said his death has left a profound vacuum in the hearts of Nigerians.
He extended his condolences to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, the family and associates of the late President, and the entire nation.
The Minister commended President Tinubu for honouring Buhari both in life and death.
“We miss him deeply, and I thank President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the honour he has continued to accord his predecessor. Despite what critics may say, Buhari himself acknowledged, during the second-year celebration of President Tinubu’s administration, that President Tinubu played a key role in helping him fulfil his destiny of becoming Nigeria’s President.”
He prayed for God’s enduring comfort for the family of the deceased and all Nigerians during this time of grief.