“Over the years, I have admired your courage and doggedness in defending your interests and your generosity in promoting education,” Buhari said according to a statement released by his spokesman, Femi Adesina on Thursday, November 24.

“The American University in Yola is one of your noble legacies, and my hope and wish is that it will endure,” he added.

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Buhari also welcomed Atiku to the 70s club while sending him his “kind personal regards.”