, Dr Patrice Motsepe, has expressed deep sorrow and heartfelt condolences following){kind=link}
The President of Confederation of African Football (CAF), Dr Patrice Motsepe, has expressed deep sorrow and heartfelt condolences following the passing of former President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency Muhammadu Buhari.
In a solemn tribute issued on behalf of CAF and its 54 Member Associations across the continent, Dr Motsepe extended condolences to the late President’s family, the Government of Nigeria, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), and the Nigerian people.
“We are deeply saddened by the passing of former Nigerian President, His Excellency Muhammadu Buhari. On behalf of CAF and our football family across Africa, I extend our sincerest condolences to his family, the Government and President of Nigeria, H.E. Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Nigeria Football Federation and its President, Mr Ibrahim Musa Gusau, and to all Nigerians, both at home and abroad.”
Dr Motsepe, who met President Buhari during official visits, described him as a leader who understood the unifying power of football and supported its development as a national pride and continental asset.
“I had the honour of meeting Former President Muhammadu Buhari and was struck by his calm strength, his humility, and his unwavering belief in the power of sports—particularly football—to unite and inspire. He was not just a statesman, but a champion of youth development, and under his leadership, Nigeria continued to shine on the African football stage.”
Former President Buhari served Nigeria with distinction across several decades—as a military Head of State from 1983 to 1985, and later as a democratically elected President for two terms from 2015 to 2023. His tenure saw renewed investments in youth, sports, and infrastructure, including the revitalization of national stadiums and active support for the Super Eagles, the Super Falcons, and Nigeria’s Olympic teams.
Dr Motsepe also acknowledged Buhari’s consistent advocacy for transparency, integrity, and good governance, values that resonated within and beyond the footballing community.
“Former President Buhari was a man of principle and discipline. His legacy will continue to resonate not just in Nigerian politics and public service, but in African football, where his administration encouraged reforms and celebrated excellence. He believed in building a stronger future for the youth—and sport was a key part of that vision.”
“President Buhari will forever live in our hearts and minds. May his soul rest in eternal peace, and may his legacy of service, discipline, and dedication to the continent never be forgotten.” Motsepe concluded.