TheCable

President Muhammadu Buhari has paid tribute to the “patriotic martyrs” of the civil war “whose glorious sacrifices enabled the unity of Nigeria as a great nation”.

Garba Shehu, presidential spokesman, said Buhari spoke on Friday when he hosted Muhammadul Mahy Niass, leader of the Tijjaniyya Islamic Religious Movement, in Abuja.

The president welcomed Niass to Nigeria and commended the group’s efforts in finding solutions to the problems of security in the country.

He described the visit of the spiritual leader as historic while commending the sect for its peaceful conduct in carrying out its activities.

The president also thanked the sect for their “profuse prayers for an end to the war and the reunification of Nigeria”.

He recalled that in the 30 months of the civil war, Nigerians on both sides lost numerous lives, praying that “never again shall we experience such”.

On his part, Niass said he had come to formally introduce himself as the new leader to the government and people of Nigeria.

He prayed for peace, unity, and the greatness of Nigeria.

Also speaking, Dahiru Usman Bauchi, leader of the Tijjaniyya in Nigeria, prayed for continued peace and blessings for the country.