By Haruna Salami and Musa Baba Adamu
The Nigerian Senate on Wednesday held a solemn special plenary session in honour of the late former President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, General Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, who passed away on July 13, 2025.
The red chamber at the conclusion of the session resolved to “Observed a minute of silence in memory of the late President Buhari, Commended the Federal Government for the befitting state funeral accorded to him; and Urged the Federal Government to immortalize him by naming a national monument after him”.
The motion to honour the late President was sponsored by the Senate Leader, Opeyemi Bamidele (Ekiti Central), who described Buhari as “a gallant soldier, accomplished democrat, and patriot whose life symbolized discipline, integrity, and selfless service to the nation.
In his lead debate, Bamidele recounted Buhari’s extensive legacy from his birth on December 17, 1942, in Daura, Katsina State, to his military training in Kaduna, India, and the United States.
Buhari rose through the military ranks, serving during the Nigerian Civil War and holding several key national positions, including Military Governor of the old North Eastern State, Federal Commissioner for Petroleum, Chairman of the NNPC, and eventually, Head of State following the 1983 coup.
The Senate noted his disciplined leadership style during his military regime and later his historic democratic journey that saw him become President in 2015 under the All Progressives Congress (APC), and his re-election in 2019.
Senator Bamidele also highlighted Buhari’s numerous national and international awards, including the GCFR and decorations from several African and European countries.
He also pointed out his role in establishing the Petroleum Trust Fund (PTF) and championing massive infrastructure investments during his tenures.
The Senate deeply regretted his passing in a London hospital after a protracted illness and commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for declaring a national mourning period and directing flags to fly at half-mast, while the Senate suspended its plenary for a week in his honour.
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