Buhari is a symbol and icon of leadership and integrity: Shaykh Bin Bayyah

 BY: News Peddlers

President Shaykh Abdullah Bin Bayyah and President Muhammadu Buhari

President Muhammadu Buhari met with Shaykh Abdullah Bin Bayyah, president of the Abu Dhabi Peace Forum, on the sidelines of the African Conference for Peace in Nouakchott, Mauritania, on Tuesday.

The Shaykh described the president, who had previously received the African Award for Strengthening Peace, as "a symbol and icon of leadership and integrity," who would remain an inspiration even after leaving office as President.

A statement by the president's spokesman, Mr Femi Adesina, quoted Shaykh Bin Bayyah as commending the efforts of the Nigerian President to eradicate religious extremism, stressing that "it is something the world must collaborate to do.

"You are doing an excellent job in that regard, and it is something we must do wherever such a situation arises around the world."

Bin Bayyah stated, while inviting Nigeria's president to visit Abu Dhabi in the short time he has left in office:

"You have had varied experiences, as a military leader, a democratically elected leader for two terms, and your input will be appreciated in any society. We will be delighted to welcome you."

Mr Buhari recalled efforts to eradicate the Boko Haram ideology in Nigeria, questioning why the group, along with the Islamic State of West African Province (ISWAP), wanted to divide the country.

"Boko Haram is a myth. You claim that Western education is ungodly. It's a forgery. Whoever is funding them simply wants to divide the country.

"All of the grounds they seized before we arrived have been recovered, and the rebuilding process is proceeding smoothly," he added.

"Boko Haram is a myth. You claim that Western education is ungodly. It's a forgery. Whoever is paying for them.