Late former President Muhammadu Buhari rejected personal gifts, including a private jet and a diamond-studded wristwatch, during his time in office, his former media aide, Garba Shehu, has revealed.
Shehu made the revelation while speaking on Inside Sources with Laolu Akande, a programme aired on Channels Television on Friday. He said the gesture underscored Buhari’s renowned frugality and personal discipline.
According to him, the private jet was offered in 2016 by the Emir of Abu Dhabi during an official visit to the United Arab Emirates. However, Buhari declined the gift, stating he would not be able to maintain such luxury after his tenure.
“The president said, ‘If it’s for my country, I will accept.’ But the emir clarified, ‘No, it’s for you personally, so that you can use it after you leave office,’” Shehu narrated.
“Buhari responded, ‘I don’t need an aircraft when I leave office. In any case, I can’t maintain it.’ That ended the story.”
Shehu described the incident as a classic example of Buhari’s principled stance against opulence and personal aggrandisement while in public office.
In another instance, Shehu recalled how the late president rejected a customised diamond wristwatch gifted by a Nigerian designer based in the UAE. The luxury timepiece, which had Buhari’s portrait embossed on it, was also politely turned down.
“The president looked at it and said, ‘Diamond wristwatch? I can’t wear this,’” Shehu said.
“He then praised the young designer for his creativity and encouraged him to keep promoting Nigeria’s image through his work, but insisted the wristwatch be returned.”
Buhari, who ruled Nigeria from 2015 to 2023, died on July 13, 2025, at the age of 82 in a London hospital. He was buried two days later in his hometown, Daura, Katsina State.
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