Former Minister of Information and Culture, Lai Mohammed, recently shared personal reflections on his tenure serving under the late President Muhammadu Buhari. During an event commemorating the first anniversary of Buhari’s death, Mohammed highlighted the former leader’s integrity, compassion, and the deep trust he extended to his cabinet members.
Mohammed emphasized that Buhari’s legacy transcends his political titles, rooted instead in his lifelong commitment to Nigeria. One specific example occurred in 2015 when Mohammed sought approval for a media tour of areas in Borno State newly freed from Boko Haram. Despite being at an international summit in South Africa, Buhari authorized the mission immediately, a gesture Mohammed described as a profound display of confidence in his staff.
The former minister also recounted how Buhari handled a petition against him. While the President followed protocol by initiating a private investigation, he made it clear he dismissed the claims from the start. The investigation ultimately proved Mohammed’s innocence. Furthermore, Buhari frequently checked on Mohammed’s personal well-being during his eight-year tenure, once openly stating he felt pity for the pressures placed on his spokesperson.
Addressing the common view of Buhari as a distant or rigid figure, Mohammed insisted that the late leader had a great sense of humor and a personable nature. He recalled stories of Buhari joking during political meetings and opting for polite requests over strict directives. Mohammed concluded by celebrating Buhari’s extensive public service record, from his military leadership to his two terms as a civilian president, asserting that the former leader’s dedication to national unity and integrity will remain an inspiration.
