The President, Major General Muhammadu Buhari (retd.), praised the Nigerian electorate after the recent presidential, governorship and legislative elections, saying they had realised their power and “ultimately decided who won or lost.” Speaking to the outgoing United States Ambassador to Nigeria, Mary Beth Leonard, at the State House in Abuja, Buhari expressed sadness that some candidates, particularly those of the All Progressives Congress, had been defeated. “I am unhappy that some candidates lost in the election. But I am inspired by the fact that voters were able to make their own decision, to decide who won and who lost,” he told the ambassador.
Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, Garba Shehu, released a statement titled “Recent elections proof of nation’s voter vibrancy, maturity, says President Buhari,” confirming the president’s remarks. He noted that the February 25 and March 18 elections had been marred by irregularities and violence, drawing criticism from sections of the electorate and the international community. Some opposition parties called for the results to be cancelled and a fresh rerun, blaming the Independent National Electoral Commission for failing to transmit results electronically. Despite these concerns, Buhari said he was “completely satisfied” with his own role, remaining above the process without meddling or interference.
Buhari lauded Nigerians for their “remarkable passion towards democracy” demonstrated through their choices in the presidential, National Assembly, governorship and state House of Assembly elections, declaring that “Nigeria’s democracy has truly matured.” He added that people are now realising their power and, given a free and fair vote, “nobody can tell them what to do.” Referring to the currency change that left little money for distribution, he said he still urged voters to cast their ballots according to their consciences.
The president also commended Ambassador Leonard for the achievements in Nigeria‑US relations during her three‑and‑a‑half‑year tenure. He highlighted Nigeria’s challenges in uniting its diverse communities and pursuing national development, while noting the United States’ longevity as a nation nearly 300 years after its founding. Buhari expressed hope that Nigeria would continue to progress in building a cohesive nation from its competitive communities and said he had enjoyed working with Leonard, wishing she had more time to serve.
When asked about his post‑presidency plans, Buhari replied that he intends to become a “big landlord,” working his farms and tending to his more than 300 animals. “I am eager to go,” he said, echoing a narrative he has repeated for months.
In her remarks, Ambassador Leonard praised the progress made in Nigeria‑US relations, citing the recent five‑year visa regime, active security collaboration, the supply of military hardware—including warplanes and forthcoming fighter helicopters—and cooperation in health initiatives against HIV and COVID‑19. She assured continued U.S. assistance in strengthening Nigeria’s health sector and thanked Buhari for his role in regional security and democratic resilience, particularly his strong response to the recent surge of coups in West Africa. Leonard expressed hope that Buhari would ensure the removal of fuel subsidies as he prepares to leave office.
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