Former President Muhammadu Buhari has called on members of the Progressive Governors Forum (PGF) to embrace a citizen-first approach to governance, emphasizing that leadership is both a challenge and an opportunity. He stated that effectively balancing the two could significantly propel Nigeria’s progress.
In a statement issued Wednesday by his spokesperson, Mallam Garba Shehu, Buhari expressed confidence in the achievements and ongoing commitment of governors elected under the All Progressives Congress (APC) platform. He made the remarks while hosting APC governors at his Kaduna residence during a courtesy visit for the Eid-el-Fitr celebration.
The former president stressed that the welfare of citizens should take precedence over self-interest in leadership, citing his own record of leaving office in 2023 with the same assets he had before assuming the presidency in 2015. He also expressed gratitude to the Tinubu-led administration for renovating his home, noting significant improvements to the interior while maintaining its familiar exterior.
Buhari appreciated the governors for their visit, acknowledging that while he had worked closely with many of them, some were newly elected.
In his remarks, PGF Chairman and Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodinma, praised Buhari’s legacy and the foundational role he played in the creation of the APC. He highlighted Buhari’s unique position in Nigerian history as the only opposition candidate to defeat an incumbent president and lauded his peaceful transfer of power to another APC-led administration.
Uzodinma credited Buhari’s tenure with significant gains in security, economic recovery, and anti-corruption, referencing initiatives such as the Conditional Cash Transfer, School Feeding Program, and the Anchor Borrowers Scheme. He also noted infrastructure achievements including advancements in rail and road development.
The Imo governor reaffirmed the Forum’s support for President Bola Tinubu, describing him as bold and reform-driven. He said Buhari’s recent public endorsement of Tinubu had fortified the sense of continuity and stability within the party.
Concluding, Uzodinma urged Buhari to continue guiding the APC and its leadership, ensuring the deepening of progressive politics and the party’s sustained leadership for a more prosperous Nigeria.
