Raphael Kanu
The House of Representatives has expressed deep sorrow over the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari, describing him as a towering figure in Nigeria’s history whose contributions to national development will be long remembered.
In an official statement released by its spokesman, Rep. Akin Rotimi Jr., the House paid tribute to Buhari, who served both as Nigeria’s Military Head of State from 1983 to 1985 and as a democratically elected president from 2015 to 2023. The statement described Buhari’s passing as the end of an era defined by discipline, national service, and a firm commitment to democratic institution-building.
The House acknowledged that during Buhari’s eight-year presidency, the National Assembly enjoyed a largely constructive working relationship with him. One of the most notable outcomes of this collaboration was the restoration of the January–December budget cycle, beginning with the 2020 Appropriation Act. According to the statement, this reform enhanced transparency, improved planning, and promoted greater accountability in Nigeria’s fiscal management.
President Buhari, the House noted, signed into law several landmark legislations that reshaped Nigeria’s economic and legal landscape. These include the Petroleum Industry Act of 2021, which restructured the oil and gas sector after years of stalled reform, and the Companies and Allied Matters Act of 2020, which modernized corporate governance and eased business operations. His administration also passed four successive Finance Acts from 2019 to 2022, introducing far-reaching tax and fiscal policy reforms, and the Deep Offshore and Inland Basin Production Sharing Contracts (Amendment) Act of 2019, which substantially increased national revenue from offshore oil operations.
One of Buhari’s most significant legislative legacies, according to the House, was his assent to the Electoral Act 2022, which bolstered Nigeria’s electoral framework and enabled the use of technology to ensure freer, fairer, and more credible elections.
The former president was also commended for assenting to several Constitution Alteration Bills transmitted by the 9th National Assembly in March 2023. Among the most consequential amendments were the devolution of electricity generation and distribution to states, the transfer of railways from the Exclusive to the Concurrent Legislative List, and the granting of financial and administrative autonomy to State Houses of Assembly and State Judiciaries. Others included empowering states to operate their own correctional services and mandating that presidents and governors submit ministerial and commissioner nominees within 60 days of assuming office.
These reforms, the House said, reflected Buhari’s dedication to deepening federalism, strengthening institutions, and upholding democratic governance.
The statement also highlighted the passage of the National Social Investment Programme Agency Act under Buhari’s tenure. This act institutionalized welfare initiatives like N-Power, TraderMoni, and the Conditional Cash Transfer Scheme, which were designed to alleviate poverty among millions of vulnerable Nigerians.
On matters of political inclusion, the House recalled Buhari’s historic signing of the Not Too Young to Run Act in 2018, which expanded electoral eligibility and encouraged youth participation in governance. He also officially recognized June 12 as Nigeria’s Democracy Day in honour of Chief MKO Abiola, a move widely regarded as a bold step toward national reconciliation and historical justice.
Buhari’s administration, the House further noted, delivered on key infrastructure promises, including the completion of the long-awaited Second Niger Bridge and nearly 1,000 kilometres of railway lines across the country. His government also made strategic investments in roads, power, and public transport with a view to promoting national integration and sustainable development.
Above all, the House of Representatives described Buhari’s personal conduct as his most enduring legacy. He was lauded for his spartan lifestyle, disciplined habits, and unwavering integrity, which earned him a devoted following and widespread admiration, particularly among ordinary Nigerians.
In a personal condolence message, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, described Buhari’s death as shocking but inevitable. “We cannot question our Creator. All mortals shall taste death. May Allah forgive his shortcomings and grant him Jannatul Firdaus,” he said. He described Buhari as an incorruptible officer and statesman who lived a life defined by simplicity and modesty, values that won him nationwide respect and trust.
On behalf of the 10th House of Representatives, the Speaker extended heartfelt condolences to Buhari’s widow, Hajiya Aisha Buhari, his family, the Government and People of Katsina State, and the entire nation. The House vowed to ensure that Buhari’s legacy of public service, integrity, and reform remains firmly enshrined in Nigeria’s democratic evolution.