Former President Muhammadu Buhari has called on governors elected under the All Progressives Congress (APC) to embrace a citizen-centric approach to governance that prioritizes the welfare of the people over personal interests.
Buhari made the call during a visit by members of the Progressive Governors’ Forum (PGF) to his residence in Kaduna, as contained in a statement by his former media aide, Garba Shehu, on Wednesday.
He urged leaders to find a balance between the challenges and opportunities that leadership presents, emphasizing that true progress can only be achieved when governance is focused on serving the people.
Citing his own example, Buhari noted that he left office with the same physical possessions he had before assuming the presidency, reinforcing his belief in modesty and public service.
“I have always believed in leadership that puts the people first. That is the only way to build a country that works for all,” he said, while also expressing confidence in the progress APC governors are making.
The former president expressed gratitude to the Tinubu-led administration for renovating his home, noting that while the building’s exterior remained unchanged, the internal upgrades had been significant.
Speaking on behalf of the visiting governors, Chairman of the Progressive Governors’ Forum and Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodinma, said their visit was to greet the former president after the Eid-el-Fitr celebration and to acknowledge his lasting contributions to Nigeria’s democracy.
Uzodinma praised Buhari as a founding pillar of the APC whose principled leadership continues to inspire the party. He referenced Buhari’s recent affirmation of loyalty to the APC, describing it as a reassuring gesture.
“Your public declaration that APC remains your party of choice came at a crucial time. It reaffirms your role as a guiding light within the progressive movement,” he said.
Uzodinma also paid tribute to Buhari’s legacy, highlighting his historic victory as the only opposition candidate to unseat an incumbent president and his peaceful handover to another APC-led administration.
He commended Buhari for reforms that focused on security, infrastructure development, anti-corruption, and food security, including programmes such as the Conditional Cash Transfer, School Feeding Programme, and the Anchor Borrowers Scheme.
“You governed with calm resolve and laid a strong foundation for APC’s progressive identity. Your legacy in economic recovery and social investment lives on,” Uzodinma added.
He described President Bola Tinubu as a worthy successor who is “bold, reform-driven, and committed to progress,” and appreciated Buhari for publicly endorsing Tinubu on his recent birthday—a move he said symbolized continuity and unity within the party.
“Mr. President, we honor your enduring values and ask for your continued guidance as we strive to deepen progressive governance across Nigeria and sustain APC’s hold for a more prosperous nation,” Uzodinma concluded.
(NAN)