President has directed on three things.
First, that this tribute (below) be issued in recognition of the
enormous sacrifices and contributions made by the deceased to the
success of his politics and administration and to the overall
development of the nation.
Second, the President wishes to direct strict observance of the social
distancing rules as prescribed by the National Center for Disease
Control, the Federal Ministry of Health; and other safe hygiene
practices as advised by relevant local authorities.
In this regard, the President will not be available for condolence
visitors but urges, in place of that prayers be offered for the repose
of soul of the departed Chief of Staff.
Third, the President wishes to convey his deep appreciation to foreign
leaders and all Nigerians, from whom a stream of messages have been
reaching him over this irreparable loss.
May Allah accept his soul.
Garba Shehu
Senior Special Assistant to the President
(Media & Publicity)
April 18, 2020
The President’s statement:
TO MY FRIEND, MALLAM ABBA KYARI
Mallam Abba Kyari, who died on 17th April, 2020, at the age of 67 from
complications caused by the Coronavirus, was a true Nigerian patriot. My
loyal friend and compatriot for the last 42 years – and latterly my
Chief-of-Staff – he never wavered in his commitment to the betterment of
every one of us.
He was only in his twenties when we first met. A diligent student, soon
after he was blessed with the opportunity to study abroad – first at
Warwick and then law at the University of Cambridge. But there was never
any question Abba would bring his first-rate skills and newly acquired
world-class knowledge back to Nigeria – which he did – immediately upon
graduation.
Whilst possessing the sharpest legal and organisational mind, Abba’s
true focus was always the development of infrastructure and the
assurance of security for the people of this nation he served so
faithfully. For he knew that without both in tandem there can never be
the development of the respectful society and vibrant economy that all
Nigerian citizens deserve.
In political life, Abba never sought elective office for himself.
Rather, he set himself against the view and conduct of two generations
of Nigeria’s political establishment – who saw corruption as an
entitlement and its practice a byproduct of possessing political office.
Becoming my Chief of Staff in 2015, he strove quietly and without any
interest in publicity or personal gain to implement my agenda.
There are those who said of him that he must be secretive – because he
did not have a high public profile. But Abba was the opposite: he simply
had no need, nor did he seek, the cheap gratification of the crowd; for
him, there was nothing to be found in popular adulation. He secured
instead satisfaction and his reward solely and only from the improvement
of the governance of this great country.
Working, without fail, seven days each and every week, he acted
forcefully as a crucial gatekeeper to the presidency, ensuring no one –
whether minister or governor had access beyond another – and that all
those representing and serving our country were treated equally.
He made clear in his person and his practice, always, that every
Nigerian – regardless of faith, family, fortune or frailty – was heard
and treated respectfully and the same.
Mallam Abba Kyari was the very best of us. He was made of the stuff that
makes Nigeria great. Rest In Peace, my dearest friend.
To his loving wife and doting family who survive him, I extend my
heartfelt sorrow at your loss.
Muhammadu Buhari
President, Federal Republic of Nigeria
April 18, 2020