By Kazeem Ugbodaga
Ex-President Muhammadu Buhari has encouraged PGF members to embrace a people-focused strategy for governance.
He highlighted that leadership comes with both hurdles and possibilities, underlining that finding the appropriate equilibrium will be essential for driving national advancement.
At a gathering with APC governors, President Buhari voiced his trust in the current initiatives led by these officials who were elected under the All Progressives Congress banner. He encouraged them to stay committed to enhancing the country’s well-being.
He likewise emphasized the significance of placing citizen well-being above individual desires.
Taking his personal experience into account, Buhari mentioned that he stepped down from office with no possessions added to his wealth, saying, "I did not accumulate any assets during my tenure as President."
He also recognized that his house in Kaduna was renovated under the Tinubu administration, mentioning that although the exterior looks unchanged, substantial upgrades were done inside.
The ex-President expressed his gratitude to the governors for their visit, organized to commemorate Eid-al-Fitr, and observed that although he had collaborated with many of these governors before, others were newly introduced to him.
The Imo State Governor and PGF Chairman, Hope Uzodinma, expressed the forum's appreciation to Buhari for his significant contributions to Nigerian democracy and the APC.
He praised Buhari's contribution to establishing the party and confirmed that his influence remains central to shaping its character and course.
Uzodinma additionally remembered Buhari’s groundbreaking accomplishment as the sole opposition contender in Nigeria who managed to unseat a sitting president. This victory underscored his steadfast principles, emphasis on security, efforts toward economic revival, and commitment to fighting corruption—all of which aligned closely with the party’s core beliefs.
He commended President Buhari’s government for implementing schemes such as the Anchor Borrowers Program, various social welfare projects, and infrastructural advancements, all of which persistently contribute to the nation's well-being.
The chairman of the PGF acknowledged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s leadership, highlighting the seamless transition and recognizing Buhari’s support for Tinubu as an indication of ongoing stability within the party.
The governors showed their dedication to maintaining the forward-thinking principles established by Buhari as they strive for APC’s ongoing success in building a more thriving Nigeria.