How Buhari rejected lavish gifts including jet from Emir of Abu Dhabi— Garba Shehu

Former presidential spokesperson Garba Shehu has disclosed that ex-president Muhammadu Buhari rejected opulent personal gifts during his time in office—among them, a diamond-encrusted wristwatch and a private aircraft offered by the Emir of Abu Dhabi.

Shehu, who served as Buhari’s Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity from 2015 to 2023, made the revelation during an appearance on Inside Sources with Laolu Akande on Channels Television.

He recounted two key instances where Buhari turned down luxury gifts, highlighting them as evidence of the former president’s consistent integrity.

One such occasion involved a globally acclaimed Nigerian fashion designer who presented Buhari with a custom-made diamond wristwatch bearing his portrait.

“A diamond wristwatch from a Nigerian fashion designer, who is successful on the global stage. And the guy, fascinated by President Muhammadu Buhari, crafted this wristwatch studded with diamonds. Customised, with the picture of the president embossed on it. And he brought it,” Shehu explained.

However, Buhari was quick to refuse the gift.
“The president looked at it, and he said, ‘Diamond wristwatch? I can’t wear this. Please tell this young Nigerian that he’s doing well for himself. He’s also a good ambassador of the country. We’ll continue to encourage him. Let him please continue to promote the image, the name of this country in his trade. But the wristwatch—take it back to him. I can’t use it.’”

According to Shehu, the former president’s ethical standards were just as firm during his travels abroad.

He shared that during a 2016 visit to the United Arab Emirates, the Emir of Abu Dhabi made Buhari a remarkable personal offer.

“When we went to the United Arab Emirates in 2016, and in Abu Dhabi, which is the capital,” Shehu recalled, “the Emir of Abu Dhabi actually asked the president of UAE, which aircraft did he want? He offered him an aircraft.”

The offer was declined once it became clear that the aircraft was intended for Buhari’s personal use rather than for Nigeria.

“The president said, if it is for my country? I will accept. But the Emir said, ‘No, it’s for you personally, so that you can also use after you leave office.’”

Buhari responded with characteristic restraint.

“I don’t need an aircraft when I leave office. In any case, I can’t maintain it.’ And that ended the story.”

Shehu said the gesture, which some may have viewed as a helpful transition gift for Buhari’s return to Daura after his presidency, was not something the ex-president would entertain.

“So President Buhari’s personal integrity is unimpeachable. As a spokesperson for that leader, you were comfortable with one thing. You were never going to be greeted by embarrassing stories of your boss being involved in wrongdoing in any way,” Shehu said.

Shehu also reflected on the challenges he faced during his tenure, particularly from journalists eager to test his resolve.

“You know, the journalists, we’re all trained in this sometimes. Because they like to prick you, they like to pinch you in a way that will remind you that you’re one of us. Don’t think that because you’re in the villa, you are too far from us,” he recounted.

These revelations come as Shehu promotes his new memoir, According to the President, which offers an insider’s look at his years as Buhari’s official spokesperson and serves as a reference for others in similar roles.