Former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari has conveyed his regrets for being unable to attend the grand finale of the Qur’anic recitation competition held in honor of the late Hajiya Abibatu M. Tinubu, mother of President Bola Tinubu.
In a letter dated May 25, 2025, and signed by his former protocol officer, Lawal Kazaure, Buhari explained that a scheduled medical check-up abroad prevented his attendance at the event, which took place on Saturday, May 31, 2025.
The letter, addressed to Senator Basheer Lado, the convener of the competition, read in part:
*“I regret to inform you that Former President Muhammadu Buhari is unable to attend the event as previously agreed due to his scheduled medical check-up abroad. In this regard, he extends his best wishes for a successful event and conveys his regards to His Excellency President Bola Tinubu and the entire Tinubu family.”*
Buhari also offered prayers for the late Hajiya Abibatu, asking that her soul continue to rest in *Jannatul Firdausi* (the highest paradise in Islam). He further requested Senator Lado to extend his warm wishes to President Tinubu.
The Qur’anic recitation competition was organized as part of ongoing tributes to the late matriarch of the Tinubu family, celebrating her legacy and contributions to Islamic education.
President Buhari’s absence was noted among dignitaries at the event, though his message of goodwill was conveyed to attendees.
This marks another instance where the former president’s overseas medical trips have affected his participation in significant national events.
