Leadership an opportunity to serve, not self-enrich, Buhari tells APC govs

Former President Muhammadu Buhari has urged governors elected on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to adopt a leadership approach that prioritizes the welfare of Nigerians above personal interests, emphasizing that true leadership lies in service, humility, and commitment to the people.

According to a statement released on Wednesday by his spokesman, Garba Shehu, Buhari made the call while receiving members of the Progressive Governors Forum (PGF) who paid him a courtesy visit at his residence in Kaduna, as part of their Eid-el-Fitr celebrations.

In a reflective tone, the former president stressed that leadership must be people-oriented and that balancing personal restraint with public responsibility is key to national progress.

“Leadership is both a challenge and an opportunity,” Buhari said. 

“It must never be about self. It is about the people. That is the reason we serve. I left office with the same physical assets I came in with, and I’m content. That is the example we should offer.”

ALSO READ: We’ll restructure, recapitalise BOA — MD

He commended the ongoing work of APC governors and expressed confidence in their individual and collective contributions to national development, urging them to remain focused on initiatives that improve citizens’ lives.

Buhari also extended gratitude to the administration of President Bola Tinubu for renovating his Kaduna residence. “Externally, the house looks the same, but I am deeply grateful for the internal improvements. It is a thoughtful gesture,” he said.

The former president acknowledged both familiar and new faces among the governors, appreciating the continuity of engagement with leaders he once worked with and expressing goodwill toward those he is yet to fully interact with.

Speaking on behalf of the delegation, PGF Chairman and Governor of Imo State, Hope Uzodimma, praised Buhari for his enduring impact on Nigerian politics, governance, and the APC.

“Your Excellency, your legacy in Nigerian history is secure,” Uzodimma declared. 

“You remain the only opposition candidate in our nation’s history to have defeated an incumbent president. You did not only win power; you governed with calm resolve and handed over with honor.”

The governors credited Buhari with laying a foundation of progressive governance, particularly in the areas of security, infrastructure, agriculture, and anti-corruption. They referenced key initiatives such as the Anchor Borrowers Programme, road and rail development, and the Conditional Cash Transfer scheme as examples of people-focused policies that continue to yield results.

“Your administration taught us to produce what we eat and eat what we produce. You brought dignity to governance and deepened the ethos of our party,” Uzodimma noted.

He also acknowledged Buhari’s recent public affirmation of support for President Tinubu, describing it as a symbol of continuity and a unifying gesture for the party.

The PGF chairman called on Buhari to continue offering his counsel to the party and its leadership as they chart the path toward deeper democratic consolidation and long-term party dominance.

“Today, we honor you not just for your past service but for the enduring values you represent,” Uzodimma said. 

“We ask you to continue to support and guide us in deepening progressive politics across the nation.”