Uhuru lands in Nigeria ahead of continental leaders’ award
By David Nthua, December 31, 2025Retired President Uhuru Kenyatta has finally touched down in Nigeria, where he is set to grace a special youth leadership summit.
The retired president was accompanied by Kalonzo Musyoka, the Wiper Patriotic Front Party leader, among other visiting guests.
Through a post on X on Wednesday, December 31, 2025, the Office of the 4th President of Kenya confirmed that Uhuru had arrived in Lagos ahead of the Future Africa Leaders Awards ceremony.
The ceremony focuses on recognising and supporting young Africans making a positive impact through leadership, education, and mentorship.
Part of the X statement said Uhuru is scheduled to “deliver the keynote address at the event. During the ceremony, he will also announce the winner of the Star Prize, the awards’ highest honour, aimed at spotlighting transformative young leaders who have made a significant impact in their communities.
The statement further indicated that the awards initiative seeks to identify and celebrate young African leaders who are transforming their communities and inspiring their generation through service and innovation.
“His Excellency President (Rtd) Uhuru Kenyatta has arrived in Lagos, Nigeria, ahead of the Future Africa Leaders Awards ceremony, an initiative that identifies, celebrates, and supports young Africans who have demonstrated exceptional leadership by positively impacting their generation through education, youth empowerment, and mentorship,” Uhuru’s office stated.
“Kenyatta is scheduled to deliver the keynote address at the event and announce the winner of the prestigious Star Prize, the event’s highest recognition.”
Uhuru’s participation places him among senior African statesmen who continue to influence continental conversations on leadership and youth empowerment even after leaving office.
From burial in Nigeria
Uhuru’s visit to Nigeria comes just a day after he attended the burial of the late former Lugari MP Cyrus Jirongo in Lumakanda, Kakamega County, where he delivered firm political remarks.
Addressing mourners during the ceremony, Uhuru pushed back against sustained political attacks, saying leaders should stop blaming others for their failures and instead face the electorate with clear ideas.
“Toa hiyo fikira mbovu, enda zungumza na wananchi. Unda na usimamishe chama chako,” the retired president said.
He further warned that retirement should not be mistaken for weakness, adding that respect must remain mutual in politics.
“Mimi ni mstaafu, lakini kusema mstaafu sio kusema uniingize kidole kwa macho. Tuheshimiane,” Uhuru said.
The Nigeria trip, therefore, marks a swift shift from a politically charged domestic event to a continental platform focused on youth leadership, mentorship and Africa’s future.