President Muhammadu Buhari has said he never knew he would lead the country. 

Buhari made this statement on Saturday when he hosted some select pupils and students from schools in Abuja.

He had served as the country’s military head of state from 31 December 1983 to 27 August 1985, after taking power in a military coup.

The event was part of activities to mark 2023 Children’s Day celebration.

Buhari admonished the children to build a great Nigeria through honesty, patriotism and unity.

He encouraged them to be good citizens before becoming leaders, highlighting the importance of self-reliance and responsibility to build and develop Nigeria.

“God spared my life to grow up from a child to an adult. As students, we were told that we were the leaders of tomorrow. I never knew that I would one day lead my country, much less lead it twice as a military officer and as a civilian.

“Therefore, I would like to say that among you, there are future councillors, lawmakers, governors and presidents. But you must first be good citizens before you become leaders.

“You may become engineers, doctors, accountants, journalists, IT experts, judges and lawyers, to name just a few. The country is going to be in your hands one day. We are not going to import foreigners to come and run our country. We must do that ourselves,” he said.