Buhari rejected diamond wristwatch, private jet gifts from UAE — Garba Shehu

Former presidential spokesperson Mallam Garba Shehu has revealed that the late former President Muhammadu Buhari rejected offers of expensive personal gifts during his time in office, including a diamond-studded wristwatch and a private jet.

Shehu disclosed during an appearance on Inside Sources with Laolu Akande on Channels Television on Friday.

He recounted that a prominent Nigerian fashion designer once presented Buhari with a luxury wristwatch made of diamonds and customised with his portrait, but the then-president refused the gift.

“The president looked at it and said, ‘Diamond wristwatch? I can’t wear this. Tell this young Nigerian he’s doing well, but take it back,’” Shehu said.

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The former media aide also revealed that during an official visit to the United Arab Emirates in 2016, the Emir of Abu Dhabi offered Buhari a personal aircraft as a gift. Buhari reportedly turned down the offer when he learnt it was meant for his personal use and not for the Nigerian government.

“If it is for my country, I will accept. But if it is for me personally, I don’t need an aircraft. I can’t maintain it,” Shehu quoted Buhari as saying.

According to Shehu, the former president’s decision reflected his personal discipline and aversion to excess, traits he maintained throughout his tenure from 2015 to 2023.

Shehu served as Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity throughout Buhari’s administration. He is currently promoting his new memoir, According to the President, which offers a behind-the-scenes account of his time in office and guidance for future presidential spokespersons.

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