The Chairperson of the African Union (AU) Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, and the President of the ECOWAS Commission, Omar Alieu Touray, have extended their condolences to the Nigerian government, the family of the late Muhammadu Buhari, and the people of Nigeria, following the former president’s passing in London on Sunday.
In a statement, Youssouf described Buhari as “a principled and resolute leader who served Nigeria with honour and conviction.” He noted that the former president would be remembered not only for his integrity and dedication to public service, but also for his unwavering commitment to pan-African ideals.
“Throughout his tenure, he remained a committed pan-Africanist—an advocate for regional integration, good governance, and African-led solutions to the continent’s pressing challenges,” Youssouf said. “He was a steadfast supporter of multilateral cooperation and a tireless champion of peace and stability across Africa.”
He praised Buhari’s enduring legacy, describing him as a distinguished statesman whose voice and leadership helped advance Africa’s development and its place on the global stage.
In a separate tribute, ECOWAS Commission Chairman Omar Alieu Touray lauded Buhari’s contributions to democracy and regional integration in West Africa. “ECOWAS salutes the memory of this distinguished statesman, whose invaluable contributions greatly advanced democracy and regional integration in West Africa and across the African continent,” Touray stated.
The Nigerian government has declared a seven-day period of national mourning, as tributes continue to pour in from world leaders, diplomats, and international institutions.
