Garba Shehu, former Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity to ex-President Muhammadu Buhari, has revealed that the former Nigerian leader consistently rejected lavish privileges and curbed wasteful government spending during his time in office.
In his newly published memoir titled “According to the President: Lessons from a Presidential Spokesperson’s Experience”, launched in Abuja on Tuesday, Shehu detailed several previously undisclosed moments when Buhari turned down extravagant gifts and blocked inflated government expenditures.
Buhari Refused ₦400 Million Armoured Cars
One of the major highlights from the book appears on pages 114–115 of Chapter 6, where Shehu recounts how Buhari rejected a proposal to purchase five customized armoured Mercedes-Benz S-600 vehicles for ₦400 million.
The vehicles were approved under former President Jonathan’s administration but left for Buhari’s discretion.
“‘What is wrong with the cars left behind by the former President?’ Buhari asked. He then told the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Nebolisa Emodi: ‘They are all right for my use.’”
Buhari reportedly continued using Jonathan’s official vehicles until one of them broke down en route to Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja.
“No Kickbacks, No Padding” – Buhari Warns Contractors
In Chapter 10, Shehu recounted a November 6, 2015 meeting Buhari held with top executives of a leading construction firm involved in federal projects. There, Buhari strongly condemned the practice of adding 10% kickbacks and building personal perks for government officials into contract prices.
“This must stop. We will not accept kickbacks… No 10 per cent, no added costs,” Buhari reportedly said, as he read the Riot Act to the delegation.
He further rejected the practice of construction companies sponsoring medical trips abroad, luxury homes, and vehicles for senior government officials, asserting that such hidden costs inflated national contracts and burdened taxpayers.
Buhari Returned Diamond-Encrusted Wristwatch
Shehu also shared how Buhari rejected a luxury wristwatch given to him by renowned Nigerian-American jeweler Chris Aire, which featured diamond studs and the president’s face engraved on it.
“The President commended the success of Aire’s brand but directed that the gift be politely returned. I dutifully did so,” Shehu wrote.
State House Catering Budget Slashed
The former spokesman revealed that Buhari once rejected a proposal to increase the Aso Rock catering budget, which was then pegged at ₦10 million for the President, Vice President, guest houses, and official banquets.
“‘Look at my table, what do I eat? How much does it cost?’” Buhari protested, insisting that the budget should be reduced rather than increased.
Shehu noted that Buhari was known for simple meals and frugal personal habits, often choosing traditional northern dishes over expensive options.
Stronger Financial Oversight at the Villa
Buhari also instructed the State House Permanent Secretary to introduce stricter financial controls, cutting dependence on Presidential Intervention Funds and ensuring all expenses were captured within the approved national budget.
“He approved a plan to reduce the State House’s running costs and eliminate reckless spending,” Shehu added.
