Buhari writes about his dear friend & former Chief of Staff Late 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.

— Muhammadu Buhari (@MBuhari) April 18, 2020

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.

— Muhammadu Buhari (@MBuhari) April 18, 2020

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.

— Muhammadu Buhari (@MBuhari) April 18, 2020

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.

— Muhammadu Buhari (@MBuhari) April 18, 2020

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.

— Muhammadu Buhari (@MBuhari) April 18, 2020

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.

— Muhammadu Buhari (@MBuhari) April 18, 2020

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.

— Muhammadu Buhari (@MBuhari) April 18, 2020

To his loving wife and doting family who survive him, I extend my heartfelt sorrow at your loss.

— Muhammadu Buhari (@MBuhari) April 18, 2020