The House of Representatives has received with deep sorrow the news of the passing of His Excellency, Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, President, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (2015 – 2023).
Former President Buhari was a towering figure in Nigeria’s history, having served both as Military Head of State (December 31, 1983 – August 27, 1985) and later as a democratically elected President who completed two terms in office from May 29, 2015 to May 29, 2023. His passing marks the end of an era defined by discipline, devotion to national service, and a firm commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s democratic institutions.
During his presidency, the National Assembly enjoyed a largely constructive working relationship with President Buhari. Notably, this collaboration yielded the historic restoration of the January–December budget cycle, beginning with the 2020 Appropriation Act. This fiscal reform significantly enhanced transparency, planning, and accountability in the management of public resources.
President Buhari also signed into law several landmark pieces of legislation passed by the National Assembly. These include:
- The Petroleum Industry Act (2021), which restructured the oil and gas sector after decades of stalled reform efforts.
- The Companies and Allied Matters Act (CAMA, 2020), which modernised corporate regulation and improved the ease of doing business.
- The Finance Acts (2019, 2020, 2021, 2022), which introduced critical tax and fiscal policy reforms.
- The Deep Offshore and Inland Basin Production Sharing Contracts (Amendment) Act (2019), which significantly increased government revenue from offshore oil exploration.
- The Electoral Act (2022), which provided a stronger legal framework for free, fair, and credible elections, including enabling provisions for technological innovation.
Additionally, President Buhari assented to several Constitution Alteration Bills transmitted by the 9th National Assembly in March 2023. Among the most consequential amendments were:
- The alteration of the Second Schedule to allow states to generate, transmit, and distribute electricity within areas covered by the national grid.
- The transfer of railway services from the Exclusive Legislative List to the Concurrent Legislative List.
- The granting of financial and administrative autonomy to State Houses of Assembly and State Judiciaries.
- The empowerment of states to establish their own correctional (prison) services.
- The requirement that Presidents and Governors submit names of ministerial and commissioner nominees within 60 days of taking office.
These constitutional reforms marked a significant stride in deepening federalism and entrenching democratic governance in Nigeria.
Under his leadership, the National Social Investment Programme Agency Act was also enacted, providing a legal framework for the delivery of social welfare interventions such as N-Power, TraderMoni, and the Conditional Cash Transfer Scheme to millions of vulnerable Nigerians; thereby institutionalising the Federal Government’s poverty alleviation strategy.
President Buhari’s tenure was also marked by key contributions to political inclusion and historical redress. He signed the Not Too Young to Run Act (2018), removing age restrictions that had previously limited youth participation in electoral politics. He also officially designated June 12 as Nigeria’s new Democracy Day in honour of the late Chief MKO Abiola, thereby correcting a long-standing national injustice and affirming the value of democratic resistance.
Beyond legislation, his administration completed critical national infrastructure projects, including the long-awaited Second Niger Bridge, and commissioned nearly 1,000 kilometres of rail lines. His government also made strategic investments in roads, power, and transportation systems with a focus on national integration and long-term development.
Above all, his greatest legacy is his spartan discipline and steadfast integrity as a veteran soldier and gentleman patriot. He demonstrated the power of personal example through a life of simplicity, modesty, and moral clarity. These enduring qualities earned him a devoted following and widespread admiration, especially among ordinary Nigerians.
In a condolence message on the loss, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, PhD, GCON, said:
“The news of the demise of former President Muhammadu Buhari was shocking to me. But we cannot question our Creator. All mortals shall taste death. May Allah forgive his shortcomings and grant him Jannatul Firdaus.”
Speaker Abbas added: “He was an officer and statesman who made a name for himself as incorruptible and lived a life defined by simplicity and a remarkable absence of materialism, virtues that earned him widespread respect and trust across the country.”
On behalf of the 10th House of Representatives, we extend our heartfelt condolences to his beloved wife, H.E. Hajiya Aisha Buhari, his family, the Government and People of Katsina State, and all Nigerians.
May his legacy of public service, national integrity, and institutional reform endure in the annals of our nation’s history.
