Nigeria’s former President and one of its most defining post-independence figures, Muhammadu Buhari, has died at the age of 82.
The ex-president died in London at about 4.30 pm, on Sunday, July 13, following a prolonged illness. This was announced in an official statement released by family spokesperson, Mallam Garba Shehu.
INNA LILLAHI WA INNA ILAIHIR RAJI’UN.
The family of the former president has announced the passing on of the former president, Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, this afternoon in a clinic in London.
May Allah accept him in Aljannatul Firdaus, Amin.
Signed,
Garba Shehu
13-07-25.— Bashir Ahmad, OON (@BashirAhmaad) July 13, 2025
President Buhari, who served as Nigeria’s civilian president from 2015 to 2023 after previously leading the country as a military head of state between 1983 and 1985, was known for his stance on anti-corruption and efforts to stabilise the economy.
Further details regarding burial arrangements are expected to be released by the family in accordance
with Islamic rites.”
A Lifetime of Service
Buhari’s passing marks the end of a public life that spanned over four decades one that saw him serve Nigeria both as a military ruler and later as a democratically elected president, a unique distinction shared only with former President Olusegun Obasanjo.
Born on December 17, 1942, in Daura, Katsina State, Buhari rose through the ranks of the Nigerian Army, becoming Head of State after a military coup on December 31, 1983. His brief rule as military leader ended with another coup in August 1985.
After years away from the center stage, Buhari reemerged as a key political force. In 2015, he made history by defeating then-incumbent President Goodluck Jonathan, marking the first time a sitting Nigerian president was unseated through democratic elections. He was re-elected in 2019 and served until May 2023.
Former President Buhari was twice elected Nigeria’s President in 2015 and 2019.He also served as military head of state between January 1984 and August 1985.
Legacy of Integrity and Controversy
Buhari’s civilian presidency centered around a three-pronged agenda: fighting corruption, tackling insecurity, and revamping infrastructure. His supporters hailed his integrity and frugal lifestyle, while critics often pointed to issues such as human rights violations, economic stagnation, and his frequent medical trips abroad.
Despite criticism, he remained a beloved figure in Nigeria’s northern regions, where his perceived discipline, religious piety, and aversion to extravagance won him deep loyalty.
National Reactions and Tributes
Tributes have begun pouring in from across Nigeria and around the world. Political leaders, traditional rulers, civil society groups, and international figures are expected to issue condolence messages in the coming hours.
Meanwhile, the Presidency has reacted to Buhari’s passing.
In a statement signed by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President, Information and Strategy, President Tinubu has spoken with Mrs Aishat Buhari, the former President’s widow and offered his deep condolences.
President Tinubu has also ordered Vice President Kashim Shettima to proceed to the United Kingdom to accompany President Muhammadu Buhari’s body back to Nigeria.
President Tinubu has ordered flags at half-staff as a mark of respect for the departed leader.
Survived by Family and Legacy
Muhammadu Buhari is survived by his wife, Aisha Buhari, children, grandchildren, and a nation whose modern history he helped shape through discipline, defiance, and decades of leadership.