The President of Gambia ,Adama Barrow , on a condolence visit to Nigeria, on Friday,25th July,2025 paid heartfelt tribute to the late former Nigerian President, Muhammadu Buhari, describing him as a democratic pillar and personal benefactor whose legacy will endure across Africa.
The Gambian leader, who arrived with his wife, First Lady Fatoumatta Bah-Barrow, began the visit with a stop at the Buhari family residence in Daura, Katsina State. He later proceeded to the Presidential Villa in Abuja, where he was received by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and First Lady Oluremi Tinubu.
Following a private meeting at the State House, President Barrow addressed journalists, expressing his deep emotional connection to Buhari and the values he stood for.
“My conscience would not have allowed me to rest without coming here to share my respect with the President and the family of Mr. Buhari,” Barrow stated.
Reflecting on Buhari’s pivotal role in stabilizing Gambia’s political transition in 2016, Barrow recalled the late Nigerian leader’s intervention as critical to ensuring democratic integrity in his country.
“He personally helped ensure that the will of the Gambian people was respected. He contributed to my coming to power and supported the consolidation of democracy in The Gambia. I cannot be ungrateful,” Barrow said.
The Gambian president went further to describe Buhari as more than a political ally, noting his personal humility and leadership as rare qualities in modern African statesmanship.
“Buhari was our colleague. He was a friend, a brother, and a father figure. A very humble president. A great man. A great leader,” he said.
Barrow emphasized the importance of emulating Buhari’s values, urging African leaders to follow in his footsteps. “If we emulate him, I believe we can move mountains and advance Africa to the next level,” he remarked.
He concluded by noting that the condolence visit was both a personal and official mission , a way to honour Buhari on behalf of the Gambian government and its people.
“We will remember him. He will not be forgotten. His legacy is a good legacy,” Barrow affirmed.