President Muhammadu Buhari has relived his experience at the war front during the Civil War.
He recalled how many of his comrades fell right beside him but he was to fulfill his destiny.
The President, who spoke at the palace of the Emir of Daura, Faruk Umar Faruk, after concluding the series of commissioning of projects in his two-day state visit to his home-state, Katsina, thanked the Lord for safety in life’s journey over many years.
He concluded the two-day engagement with the commissioning of Musawa General Hospital, Government Day Secondary School, Musawa, Gora-Makauraci-Malamawa road, and Sandamu-Baure-Babban Mutum road, Gurjiya -Sandamu-Karkarku roads in Daura.
Buhari said that he secured his first job early after school to manage a co-operative in Daura, but had to escape and join the army when there was pressure that he should get married.
Reliving his past experiences, according to a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr Femi Adesina, Buhari said said the destiny of man, country and the world remains in the hands of the Lord.
The President, who spoke in Hausa language, during the visit said: “I told Governor Aminu Bello Masari the story of how I left Daura to join the army. That was how the Lord planned it. We make choices in life, but eventually destiny is before Him.
“I was at the war front during the civil war, and saw how many died. Some fell right beside me. He kept me.
“Many bridges were blown just before we arrived at some places, and after we crossed. I arrived at some places to see bodies of my own colleagues that we were fighting together. I am alive today only by His grace.”
Buhari, who regarded his experiences and personal challenges as testimonies of divine protection and guidance, said: “This opportunity to serve the nation comes from Him. All over the world, Nigeria is known for its diversity, with different religions and cultures.
“We are also known because we have a huge population of millions of people.
“For the President of Nigeria, at this time, to come from Daura is His grace and mercy,” he said.
Buhari noted that the Daura Emirate and community gained international recognition by divine purpose, not man’s efforts.
The President assured the Emirate that he would return and settle down in Daura, after handing over on May 29, 2023.
“The Emir has spoken extensively and I don’t have much to add. I have three of my classmates that are here today in the Emirate Council.
“I also hear of how the Emir has been giving recognitions and titles to my staff and family members. I am grateful for all the support,” he stated.
The Nation
