Former President Uhuru Kenyatta revealed private discussions with his Nigerian counterpart, the late Muhammadu Buhari, and how they contributed to shaping his Pan-African outlook and approach to continental governance.
Uhuru who joined global leaders on Monday, July 14, in mourning Buhari, described the former Nigerian president as a leader who carried the responsibilities of public office with commitment and humility.
“President Buhari was not only a symbol of resilience but also of integrity. He had a firm stance on his principles and always prioritised the interests of Nigeria and Africa above self,” Uhuru said.
Uhuru also recalled Buhari’s State visit to Kenya and talks between them, stating: “I fondly remember his visit, where we had extensive and sincere conversations about Africa’s future.”
Uhuru and Buhari led their respective countries during overlapping periods, with the former Nigeria head of state serving as president from 2015 to 2023 while Kenyatta was president from 2013 to 2022.
One of the notable meetings between the two heads of state took place in January 2016, when Buhari made a three-day visit to Kenya. This was historical as it marked the first time he made a trip to East Africa since his election.
At the time, Buhari received full State honours from President Uhuru Kenyatta, including a ceremonial guard of honour and a 21-gun salute.
During the visit, the two leaders held bilateral talks in Nairobi on areas such as security, regional trade, tax avoidance, and the establishment of a Kenya–Nigeria Business Forum.
Uhuru, in his tribute to Buhari, also emphasised the former head of State's contribution to regional security and governance as he credited Buhari with strengthening the foundation for collective efforts in tackling corruption in Africa.
“President Buhari was known for his strong stance against corruption, dedication to national security, and efforts to foster economic reform and regional cooperation. He believed in the power of African solutions to African problems and worked tirelessly to elevate Nigeria’s voice on the global stage,” Uhuru added.
While describing Buhari's death as a personal loss, Uhuru also noted that the late former Nigeria president was instrumental in shaping African Union policies and was a strong advocate for Pan-Africanism.
“I have lost not just a friend but a fellow patriot in the quest for a united, peaceful, and prosperous Africa,” he added in his statement.
Earlier in the day, President William Ruto also passed a condolence message, describing Buhari’s passing as a great loss not only to Nigeria but to the entire African continent, noting his immense contribution to liberation struggles and regional development.
