₦airaland Forum

President Cyril Ramaphosa has paid tribute to former Nigerian president Muhammadu Buhari, saying his leadership brought the two nations closer together.

Ramaphosa also offered his deep condolences to the people of Nigeria following the passing of Buhari, who led the Federal Republic of Nigeria from 2015 to 2023.

“As South Africa, we stand with the nation of Nigeria in your mourning. President Buhari led Nigeria as a patriot and a champion not only of the best attributes of his nation during his leadership, but of the future that awaited his great country.”

Ramaphosa said he had the privilege of working closely with Buhari on building relations between South Africa and sharing numerous reciprocal visits, including during the Covid-19 pandemic.

“These engagements were dedicated to intensifying cooperation in areas such as arts and culture, education, agriculture, trade and investment, mining, defence, immigration and science and technology.

“President Buhari’s leadership brought our two nations closer together, and as we did so, this partnership contributed to Africa’s collective growth and development. This is a legacy on which we will continue to build,” Ramaphosa said.

FULL STATEMENT

"On behalf of the Government and people of South Africa, President Cyril Ramaphosa offers his deep condolences to the Government and nation of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, following the passing of Former President Muhammadu Buhari.

President Ramaphosa’s thoughts are primarily with the family of Former President Buhari who has passed away at the age of 82.

President Ramaphosa offers his deep condolences to the family, friends, former colleagues and associates of the late President Buhari, who led the Federal Republic of Nigeria from 2015 to 2018.

President Ramaphosa said: “As South Africa, we stand with the nation of Nigeria in your mourning.

“President Buhari led Nigeria as a patriot and a champion not only of the best attributes of his nation during his leadership, but of the future that awaited his great country.

“I had the privilege of working closely with President Buhari on building relations between our country and sharing numerous reciprocal visits - including during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“These engagements were dedicated to intensifying cooperation in areas such as arts and culture, education, agriculture, trade and investment, mining, defence, immigration and science and technology.

“President Buhari’s leadership brought our two nations closer together and as we did so, this partnership contributed to Africa’s collective growth and development.

“This is a legacy on which we will continue to build.”

Pierocash:
He brought only the political class together not the citizens. A country that dead Nigerians cannot even be allowed to be buried even in the cemetery. is that what bringing together means?

Ironfaceman:
Well said but that didn't bring healing. The 2 countries are still Miles apart.

Coming together was for mutual understanding and peace but its festered XENOPHOBIA.

Ewedegubbler:
na lie. Buhari destroyed nigerias relationship with south africa. the ubuntu spirit was killed by him. wealthy Nigerians stopped coming to SA under buhari