Kaduna: Former President Muhammadu Buhari has urged state governors to adopt a citizen-centric approach to governance. This is contained in a statement issued by Buhari’s former Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Garba Shehu, on Wednesday. Shehu quoted the former president as giving the advice while receiving members of the Progressive Governors’ Forum (PGF) at his Kaduna residence.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Buhari emphasized that leadership presents both challenge and opportunity, stressing that balancing the two will significantly advance the country’s progress. He advised leaders to prioritize the welfare of the people over themselves, citing his personal example of leaving office with the same physical assets he had before becoming president.
Buhari expressed confidence in the progress being made by the governors elected on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), reiterating his call for continued dedication to the nation’s progress. He thanked the governors for their visit, noting that while he had worked with several of them, some others were new to him.
Buhari also expressed appreciation for the President Bola Tinubu-led administration for renovating his home in Kaduna. He noted that while the building looked the same externally, significant improvements had been made inside.
In his remarks, Chairman of the PGF, Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo, stated that their visit was to greet the former president on the occasion of the recent Eid-el-Fitr. Uzodinma conveyed the governors’ gratitude and enduring respect to Buhari for his contributions to Nigeria’s democracy and the strengthening of the APC.
Uzodinma praised Buhari for his role in the founding of the APC and for publicly affirming his commitment to the party, which he said reassures party members. He highlighted Buhari’s unique achievement as the only opposition candidate to have defeated an incumbent and govern with resolve.
Uzodinma commended Buhari’s administration for its focus on security, economic recovery, and anti-corruption, noting its impact on programs related to social investment, food security, and infrastructure. He acknowledged the ongoing renewal and repositioning of the APC under Tinubu’s leadership, describing it as bold and reform-driven.
He concluded by honoring Buhari for his past service and the values he represents, urging him to continue supporting and guiding the party. Uzodinma expressed hope for the continued success of the APC in fostering a prosperous Nigeria.