Chris Ngige, former governor of Anambra State and ex-Minister of Labour, has shared another intimate and humorous moment with the late President Muhammadu Buhari that sheds light on his human side and close relationship with his aides.
Speaking during an interview with Arise Television from 3:18, Ngige recounted an incident aboard a presidential aircraft involving the former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha. According to Ngige, Buhari noticed Boss quietly eating a local snack and reacted in a way that left everyone laughing.
According to him, “Another time, Boss Mustapha packed some banana and groundnut in the aircraft. He spoke to Boss in Hausa, I didn’t know what he was telling him, but Boss later on explained. He said Boss is eating the banana secretly, that he has also caught him with the back of his eyes, that he also mouth and things, and everybody burst into laughter. Then Boss had to open the box of banana, and groundnut and gave him, but I heard the word ‘Jada’, so that one I know.”
The use of the Hausa word “Jada”—which often refers to someone’s hometown or roots—added a familiar touch to the interaction, reflecting Buhari’s fondness for local expressions and light teasing among close associates.
Ngige said moments like these made the former president more relatable. Despite being a military man with a stoic public image, Buhari often displayed wit and warmth in private settings.
