The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, has expressed deep sadness at the death of Nigeria’s former President Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away in London on Sunday at the age of 82.
In a condolence message issued on behalf of the African Union Commission and the broader AU family, Youssouf extended heartfelt sympathies to the Government and people of Nigeria, as well as to the late President Buhari’s family, during what he described as a period of national mourning and collective grief.
“President Buhari will be remembered as a principled and resolute leader who served Nigeria with honour and conviction,” the AU Chairperson said. “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. He was a steadfast supporter of multilateral cooperation and a tireless champion of peace and stability across Africa.”
Youssouf paid tribute to Buhari’s enduring legacy, praising his contributions to Africa’s development, unity, and representation on the global stage. “May his soul rest in eternal peace,” he concluded.
Separately, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) also issued a statement mourning Buhari’s passing. Dr Omar Alieu Touray, President of the ECOWAS Commission, conveyed condolences on behalf of all ECOWAS institutions to Buhari’s family, to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Government of Nigeria, and to all Nigerians.
“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,” the statement read. “It is with deep sorrow that the world learnt of the passing of His Excellency General Muhammadu Buhari.”
