BY AHMED AKANBI

President Bola Tinubu will lead dignitaries at activities marking the first posthumous anniversary of former President Muhammadu Buhari, with family, associates, and admirers set to celebrate his life and legacy.

The commemorative event billed for July 13 at the Nigerian Army Resource Centre, Asokoro, Abuja, will feature interfaith prayers, tributes, and the public presentation of a commemorative book titled: “Tributes and Condolences in Honour of Muhammadu Buhari”

Former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, SGF Boss Mustapha announced the programme on Wednesday in Abuja, naming President Tinubu as Special Guest of Honour.

He said the memorial is to bring together Buhari’s family, former aides, friends, public officials, and well-wishers to honour his contributions and pray for his soul.

Mustapha said the tribute book contains condolence messages from heads of state, diplomats, political leaders, and members of the international community, who remembered Buhari for “simplicity, resilience and integrity.”

Selected close associates, he added would also share personal reflections on his leadership.

“The programme will principally consist of interfaith and interdenominational prayers, reflecting the values of unity, faith and national cohesion that President Buhari upheld throughout his life,” Mustapha said.

According to him, the book would not be sold or used for fundraising.

“Because of the importance of the book, it will be distributed free of charge to Nigerians,” he stated, adding that religious leaders from different faiths are expected to lead prayers.

On making the memorial an annual event, the former SGF said no decision has been taken. “For all intents and purposes, this is the first one. Thereafter, there will be a structure in place that will determine whether it becomes an annual or periodic event,” he explained.

The ceremony is expected to draw senior government officials, former office holders, diplomats, and other prominent Nigerians.