“How I Met Buhari During My NYSC Days” – Mike Okiro Remembers Late President with Heartfelt Tribute

“How I Met Buhari During My NYSC Days” – Mike Okiro Remembers Late President with Heartfelt Tribute

As Nigeria continues to observe a week-long national mourning for the late former President Muhammadu Buhari, tributes have continued to pour in from prominent Nigerians, including former Inspector-General of Police, Sir Mike Mbama Okiro.

In a deeply personal statement issued on Wednesday—the fourth day of mourning—Okiro recounted a poignant memory from 1977 during his National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) year, describing a moment that left a lasting impression on him.

“I have a cherished memory that stands out vividly in my mind,” he said. “During my NYSC days in 1977, when President Buhari was the Military Governor of Borno State, I was among four corps members selected to visit the Government House. What an honour it was to shake hands with the governor himself. That moment has stayed with me all these years.”

The former police chief described the late Buhari as a patriot whose dedication to national unity, security, and democratic values shaped modern Nigeria.

“Buhari’s leadership and vision for Nigeria will be remembered for generations to come,” Okiro said. “His commitment to democracy, stability, and progress will forever be etched in the annals of our nation’s history.”

Offering his condolences to the Buhari family and the entire nation, Okiro called for continued reflection on the values the late president embodied—service, integrity, and patriotism.

“As we bid farewell to a leader who left an indelible mark on our country’s journey, I pray that his legacy will continue to inspire future generations,” he wrote. “May his memory remind us of the importance of service, dedication, and a shared commitment to building a better Nigeria.”

Sir Mike Okiro, who served as Nigeria’s 13th Inspector-General of Police and later chaired the Police Service Commission, signed off his tribute with a simple but powerful message:

“Farewell, President Buhari GCFR.”