Former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Boss Mustapha, has announced plans for a national remembrance to mark the first anniversary of former President Muhammadu Buhari’s passing, describing the event as a celebration of a leader whose legacy of simplicity, integrity and service continues to inspire Nigerians.
Speaking at a press conference in Abuja on behalf of the Central Planning Committee, Mustapha said the one-year remembrance and prayer session would take place on July 13, 2026, at the Nigerian Army Resource Centre, Asokoro, Abuja, beginning at 12:00 noon.
He disclosed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will attend as the special guest of honour and will publicly present a commemorative book titled “Tributes and Condolences in Honour of Muhammadu Buhari”.
According to Mustapha, the event will bring together members of Buhari’s family, friends, former associates, public officials, diplomats, political leaders, and admirers to celebrate the late President’s life and pray for the peaceful repose of his soul.
He explained that the programme would feature interfaith and interdenominational prayers, reflecting the values of unity, faith, and national cohesion that Buhari upheld throughout his years of public service.
”The occasion is designed not only to honour the memory of the late President but also to provide comfort and encouragement to his family, friends, admirers, and all Nigerians who continue to cherish his legacy of service to the nation,” Mustapha said.
He added that selected individuals who worked closely with Buhari would share personal reflections on his leadership and contributions to Nigeria’s development.
Mustapha revealed that the commemorative publication, “Tributes and Condolences in Honour of Muhammadu Buhari,” contains messages from heads of state, diplomats, political leaders, and members of the international community, who remembered the former President as a man of humility, resilience, discipline, and unwavering integrity.
He clarified that the book is not intended for sale or fundraising but will be distributed free of charge as a lasting tribute to Buhari’s life and public service.
The former SGF appealed to journalists to give the remembrance activities wide publicity and encourage Nigerians to join in prayers for the late President.
“As members of the Fourth Estate of the Realm, we count on your support to take the message of this event across the country and encourage Nigerians to remain united and offer prayers, both individually and collectively, for the repose of President Buhari’s soul,” he said.
Responding to questions from journalists, Mustapha said the 2026 remembrance is the first official anniversary programme organised by Buhari’s family, friends, and former associates. He noted that a permanent structure may be established to determine whether similar commemorations would be held annually or periodically.
Reflecting on his personal relationship with the late President, Mustapha described the past year as one of deep reflection and gratitude.
Having served as Secretary to the Government of the Federation under Buhari for more than five years, he said he cherished the opportunity to work closely with the former President and regarded him as more than a political leader.
He said Buhari’s simplicity, humility, and commitment to public service remain enduring lessons that should continue to inspire current and future leaders.
The remembrance ceremony is expected to attract senior government officials, members of the diplomatic community, religious leaders, former cabinet members, political associates, and Nigerians from different walks of life who will gather to celebrate the life and legacy of one of the country’s most influential former Presidents.
, Boss Mustapha, has announced plans for a national remembrance to mark the first anniversary of former President Muhammadu Buhari's passing, describing the event as a celebration of a leader whose legacy of simplicity, integrity, and service continues to inspire Nigerians.){kind=link}