The president made his feelings known in a condolence message issued by his media aide, Malam Garba Shehu, on Thursday in Abuja.
Late Mustapha served as Minister of Agriculture and Natural Resources and in 2007 was appointed Minister of Defence in the cabinet of President Umaru Yar’Adua. Later he became Minister of Interior.
Buhari described late Mustapha as indomitable, full of life and insightful.
According to him, the deceased had strong belief in Nigeria’s strength and capabilities, saying Shettima inspired many generations of Nigerians to believe in agriculture.
”My condolences to his family, the government and people of Borno State and his many admirers.
”We will miss him greatly but we will never forget him,” he added.