NOC Says Late President Buhari Distinguished Leader
The Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC) has expressed sadness over the death of the former President, Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, a 3-Term Grand Patron of the movement in Nigeria.
Buhari, a military head of state from 1983 to 1985 and civilian president between 2015 and 2023 died in a London clinic on Sunday, July 12 at the age of 82.
The NOC in a condolence message signed by Tony Nezianya, its Public Relations Officer described Buhari as a distinguished leader who served as the committee’s Grand Patron across three separate tenures.
They extended NOC’s sympathy to the Federal Government, the people of Nigeria and Buhari’s immediate family.
The NOC recalled that his leadership was a glorious era for Nigerian sports whose key highlight was Nigeria’s historic victory at the inaugural FIFA Kodak U-16 World Cup in China in 1985.
“As Head of State, Buhari promised the victorious team and their handlers houses to reward their monumental achievement.
“In a remarkable display of integrity and commitment, this long-standing promise was fulfilled decades later during his civilian presidency, when the houses were finally redeemed and allocated to the deserving heroes.
In a tribute, the President of the NOC, Engr. Habu Ahmed Gumel, lauded President Buhari’s unwavering support for athletes.
“President Buhari kept faith with destiny and never toyed with the desires of sportsmen and women, who brought laurels to the country. Challenges endured, and they received their dues during his lifetime.”
Engr. Gumel noted that this dedication is a “remarkable quality in leadership” and that President Buhari’s actions have “undoubtedly remained a motivating initiative for today’s athletes,” encouraging them to strive for excellence with the assurance that their efforts will be recognised and rewarded.
Gumel prayed that Allah forgave President Buhari’s transgressions here on earth and may Allah also grant hi
m Jannatul firdausi.
