Safaree Samuels -- Buries Nicki Minaj ... Tatt Man Apologizes (PHOTO)

Nicki Minaj is finally nothing more than a faded memory to her ex-bf Safaree Samuels, who just ditched his last tattoo tribute to her ... in a bed of roses.

Safaree got his forearm ink of Nicki with her tongue out covered up with the new flowery tatt. It's pretty amazing -- look closely and there's not a trace of her left. Safaree started operation Scrub Nicki months ago ... starting with his chest.

Safaree says the change gave him an "overwhelming feeling of liberation."

Interestingly, the artist, named Compton -- posted a shot of his handiwork with the caption, "#SorryNicki #itsJustBusiness"

Break-ups are always hardest on the tattoo guys.