London, Sunday, July 13, 2025 — Former President Muhammadu Buhari, Nigeria’s two-time leader and a central figure in the country’s modern political history, has died at the age of 82.
The news was confirmed on Sunday afternoon by his longtime spokesperson, Mallam Garba Shehu, who announced that the former president passed away at a hospital in the United Kingdom.
“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,” Shehu said in a statement.
“May Allah accept him in Aljannatul Firdaus,” he added.
A Life of Service and Controversy
Buhari was born on December 17, 1942, and served Nigeria in both military and civilian capacities. He first rose to national prominence as a Major General in the Nigerian Army and went on to serve as military Head of State from January 1984 to August 1985 following a coup that ousted the civilian government of President Shehu Shagari.
After his ouster, Buhari remained a key figure in Nigerian politics. In 1994, he was appointed Executive Chairman of the Petroleum Trust Fund (PTF) by the Sani Abacha regime, where he oversaw large-scale infrastructure projects and social interventions.
Buhari ran unsuccessfully for president in 2003, 2007, and 2011 before finally winning the 2015 presidential election under the banner of the All Progressives Congress (APC)—a landmark victory that marked the first time an incumbent president (Goodluck Jonathan) was defeated at the polls in Nigeria’s history.
Re-elected in 2019, Buhari served two terms as President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, leaving office in 2023.
Legacy
During his presidency, Buhari focused on anti-corruption, infrastructure development, and security—especially in the fight against Boko Haram. His administration also faced criticism over human rights issues, economic challenges, and perceived ethnocentric policies.
Despite mixed assessments of his leadership, Buhari remained a towering figure in Nigerian politics and governance, revered by some as a symbol of discipline and integrity, and critiqued by others for his austere leadership style.
He was the recipient of numerous national and international honors, including:
Grand Commander of the Federal Republic (GCFR)
- Commander of the Federal Republic (CFR)
- Defence Service Medal
- National Service Medal
- Forces Service Star
- Global Seal of Integrity
- Congo Medal
Tributes Begin to Pour In
Tributes from across the political spectrum and international community have begun to emerge, honouring Buhari’s contributions to Nigeria’s development.
Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State noted that Buhari’s “contributions to national development will be remembered,” while Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State said the late leader “made his mark serving Nigeria.”
A special edition of national mourning is expected to be declared in the coming
