The world turned its attention to New York as Amina Mohammed, Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations, stopped at Nigeria House to share her condolences following the death of Nigeria’s former President Muhammadu Buhari. Mohammed, once closely allied with Buhari in public service, described his steadfast leadership and character to those gathered.
Hailing him as an embodiment of discipline and conviction, Mohammed called Buhari a “man of, as we say in Hausa, ‘kishin kasa’ (patriotism),” emphasizing how he infused those around him with a sense of national pride. Recalling moments of challenge, Mohammed noted: “When we were frustrated, he would remind us that we are serving humanity… We must continue to try to do the best, and we will be judged by our intentions.”
The Deputy Secretary-General highlighted the magnitude of Buhari’s loss at a period marked by shifting values globally, urging his followers to recall his commitment to country and continent. Referring to the late leader’s influence in international settings, Mohammed said, “He did his best with what he had and for that, he will always be remembered; that he never gave up on Nigeria.”
Syndoph Endoni, representing Nigeria’s mission to the UN, remarked on the significance of her tribute, identifying Buhari’s enduring reputation for discipline and his unrelenting dedication to the nation.