Abuja, July 17, 2025
Yusuf Buhari, son of the late President Muhammadu Buhari, publicly expressed deep gratitude to President Bola Tinubu during a specially convened Federal Executive Council (FEC) session held in honour of his father at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
Speaking on behalf of the Buhari family, Yusuf thanked President Tinubu and First Lady Oluremi for their support during Buhari’s illness, burial, and mourning period. He also acknowledged Vice President Kashim Shettima and his wife, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, House Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, the Nigerian military, and citizens nationwide for their solidarity.
Emotion filled the chamber when Yusuf referred to Tinubu affectionately as “Daddy,” a move that immediately drew attention online .
Highlights from Yusuf’s Speech:
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Acknowledgment of support: “Thank you for standing with us during my father’s sickness and burial” — emphasizing Tinubu’s role in the state funeral arrangements.
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Personal tribute: Calling the president “Daddy” as a heartfelt sign of respect and appreciation.
Watch Yusuf Buhari’s address here:
Context: Special FEC Session and Tributes
President Tinubu summoned an expanded FEC meeting on July 17 as a formal tribute to the late President Buhari, who passed away in London on July 13, 2025, and was flown back to Nigeria for a ceremonial burial on July 15. In his remarks, Tinubu praised Buhari as a leader of discipline, courage, and unwavering patriotism.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio also used the venue to commend Buhari, stating that even his critics could not claim he embezzled public funds, and applauded his integrity and service to the nation.
In a separate gesture, Tinubu announced that the University of Maiduguri would be renamed “Muhammadu Buhari University” to preserve Buhari's legacy in Borno State.
Why It Matters
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Symbol of unity: Yusuf’s affectionate acknowledgment of Tinubu signals reconciliation and mutual respect across political lines.
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State recognition: The FEC tribute, university renaming, and support from national leaders further solidify Buhari’s enduring legacy.
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Public reaction: Yusuf’s “Daddy” moment has sparked conversation on social media, reflecting the emotional atmosphere in the nation’s capital.
This special session underscores Nigeria’s collective grieving and the political gestures aimed at ensuring Buhari’s memory is honored with dignity.
