Bayo Omoboriowo, the personal photographer to late President Muhammadu Buhari, has penned an emotional tribute in honour of the former Nigerian leader, whom he described as a rare kind of boss who empowered and trusted young people to thrive without micromanagement.
In a post shared on X (formerly Twitter), Omoboriowo reflected on his eight-year journey documenting Buhari’s presidency, noting that the late president never once interfered with his creative process.
“For 8 years, I served as President Muhammadu Buhari’s personal photographer. Through those years, he never interfered in my work—not once. He trusted me completely and gave me wings to fly,” he wrote.
“He gave me space to grow”
Omoboriowo, who visually chronicled the Buhari years from 2015 to 2023, said the former president gave him the rare privilege of documenting Nigeria’s evolving story from a creative, unfiltered lens.
“He gave me space to grow. He allowed me, a young Nigerian, to express myself fully—through the lens. He let me tell Nigeria’s story with truth and depth. In doing so, he helped me show what is possible when young people are given a chance,” he added.
He described the experience as transformative—not only professionally but personally—as it helped him discover what leadership trust can unlock in the youth.
He flew to London to document Buhari’s final moments
Upon hearing of President Buhari’s death in London, Omoboriowo revealed that he made the journey to the UK not just as a photographer but as someone whose life had been shaped by the trust and opportunities the former leader gave him.
“When he passed, I knew I had to be there. I flew to London to capture his final moments—not just as his photographer, but as someone whose life he had impacted deeply. This was history. This was honor. And I had to document it one last time.”
“Thank you, President Buhari, for believing in me”
Omoboriowo concluded his tribute with a message of gratitude and farewell, thanking the former president for believing in his vision and for giving him a platform to serve the country through photography.
“Thank you, President Buhari—for believing in me, for trusting me, and for giving me the platform to serve and grow. You are gone, but not forgotten.
Rest in perfect peace, sir.”
Buhari’s passing sparks global tributes
President Muhammadu Buhari passed away in London after a brief illness.
His death has led to an outpouring of tributes from world leaders, associates, and ordinary Nigerians, many of whom are reflecting on his leadership legacy and impact on their personal lives.
