What a General said about the General:Gowon Remarks at Nigeria High Commission about Buhari
….A Condolence Visit to Nigerian High Commission in London Over Passing of Former President Buhari
London, July 21, 2025 – Nigeria’s former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon (Rtd), has paid a solemn condolence visit to the Nigerian High Commission in London following the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari.
The former leader, who ruled Nigeria from 1966 to 1975, was received by the Acting High Commissioner, Ambassador Mohammed Maina Maidugu, alongside senior diplomats and officers of the mission. General Gowon was accompanied by his wife, Her Excellency Victoria Gowon.
During the visit, General Gowon expressed deep sorrow over the passing of President Buhari, whom he described as a trusted friend and patriot. He recalled their long-standing relationship, tracing back to their military days in the 1960s, and praised the former President’s commitment to Nigeria’s unity and democratic progress.
“We are truly saddened to be here,” Gowon said. “We had just arrived in the UK intending to visit him, only to receive the heartbreaking news of his passing minutes after getting home. We didn’t know what to do except to wait for formal confirmation.”
In a heartfelt tribute, Gowon highlighted Buhari’s steadfast support for his successor, President Bola Tinubu, during the last general elections. “That was one of the greatest things he did to ensure his party succeeded and the democratic process moved forward,” he noted.
The former Head of State commended the leadership at the High Commission for their role in facilitating the repatriation of the former President’s remains back to Nigeria and urged the diplomatic staff to continue their dedicated service to the country.
“Continue to do your best for Nigeria, no matter the challenges. Our duty remains to support the government and to help our country move forward,” he advised. “May God bless you all. Please continue being good Nigerians, no matter the circumstances. Concluding, in Hausa, said, Allah ya bashi al-jannah.”
Responding, Ambassador Maidugu described General Gowon’s visit as an inspiration and a show of enduring leadership.
“Your Excellency, your presence here today means more than words can express,” the Acting High Commissioner said. “You remain a pillar for consultation, not only in Nigeria’s relations with the UK but also in the affairs of our diplomatic mission and the Nigerian community in Britain. We are grateful for your leadership and prayers.”
He added that the mission remains committed to honouring the memory of President Buhari and to upholding Nigeria’s image abroad.
In a brief but touching remark, Her Excellency, Victoria Gowon spoke about the close personal bond her family shared with the late President:
“You know, General Buhari was very, very close to us. It may not have always appeared that way in public, but we were indeed very close. Thank you so much.”
…End.