Former President Muhammadu Buhari has urged governors elected under the All Progressives Congress (APC) to prioritize the welfare of citizens. They should place it above personal or political interests. He called for leadership rooted in selflessness, accountability, and legacy.
The statesman made this call during a courtesy visit by the Progressive Governors Forum (PGF). The forum was led by Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodinma. They visited Buhari’s Kaduna residence to celebrate the Eid-el-Fitr festivities.
In a statement issued by his former spokesman, Garba Shehu, Buhari emphasized that leadership must be seen as a challenge. Leadership should also be viewed as an opportunity. When properly handled, it can bring measurable progress to the nation.
“Leaders must prioritize the welfare of the people, not themselves,” Buhari said, reaffirming his long-standing philosophy of service. “I left office with the same assets I came in with.”
The former president also took time to appreciate the Bola Tinubu administration for renovating his Kaduna home. While the exterior retained its traditional design, he acknowledged the significant internal improvements made to the structure.
Governor Uzodinma, speaking on behalf of the delegation, described Buhari as a pillar of democratic evolution in Nigeria, thanking him for his immense contributions to both the party and the country.
“We recall with pride your role in founding the APC, and your recent reaffirmation of loyalty to the party has greatly boosted the morale of our members,” he said.
Uzodinma credited Buhari’s tenure for laying the foundation for several key initiatives such as:
The Conditional Cash Transfer Program, which provided economic relief to millions of vulnerable Nigerians;
The Home-Grown School Feeding Scheme, which improved school enrollment and child nutrition;
The Anchor Borrowers Programme, which contributed to Nigeria’s strides in food security;
Major investments in infrastructure development, including rail projects, road expansion, and renewable energy.
He continued, “Your Excellency, your legacy in Nigerian history is secure. You remain the only opposition candidate to have unseated an incumbent, and you handed over power peacefully to another president from your own party. That, in itself, is a testament to your integrity.”
The former president’s interaction with the governors wasn’t only ceremonial—it served as a subtle yet powerful reminder that the APC must renew its commitment to progressive values if it is to retain public trust and electoral relevance.
Political observers noted that Buhari’s message—though calm in delivery—was an indirect challenge to APC leaders to stay away from the politics of self-enrichment, power consolidation, and elite capture.
In recent months, the APC has faced increasing scrutiny over internal divisions, allegations of high-level corruption, and dissatisfaction from its youth and middle-class base. Buhari’s emphasis on simplicity and national service stood in stark contrast to the current image crisis facing some party members.
Buhari’s warm acknowledgment of President Bola Tinubu’s governance style marked a strong show of party unity. He praised Tinubu’s commitment to reforms, despite economic pressures.
Uzodinma added, “The APC is being repositioned under President Tinubu, whose leadership has been bold and reform-driven. Your public endorsement of him reinforced the continuity and strength of our political movement.”
Still, policy analysts suggest that Buhari’s tone reflects a watchful optimism. As the Tinubu government navigates fuel subsidy reform, currency stabilization, and youth employment, there remains pressure to ensure that APC’s policies translate into real economic and social improvements.
On social media, Nigerians welcomed Buhari’s call for ethical leadership, with many praising his post-office humility. Some users shared photos of the former president’s modest living conditions, contrasting it with ostentatious displays by current public officials.
Political commentator, Dr. Halima Yusuf, stated:
“What Buhari represents is a form of ascetic leadership. While his presidency had challenges, his personal lifestyle continues to remind Nigerians of what leadership can be when driven by purpose rather than profit.”
Others, however, criticized the APC for turning the visit into a political showpiece, accusing the party of using Buhari’s legacy to distract from economic challenges under the Tinubu administration.
As Nigeria prepares for its next electoral cycle in 2027, Buhari’s message may serve as both a warning and a guide. The APC must now decide whether to return to its ideological roots or continue down a path of elite-driven governance.
With Buhari stepping back from daily politics but remaining a symbolic moral compass for the ruling party, APC governors may find his advice hard to ignore—especially in a country where public trust in government is rapidly eroding.