Muhammadu Buhari, Nigeria’s former president and military ruler, who passed away on Sunday, July 13, 2025, at approximately 4:30 p.m. GMT in a London clinic after a prolonged illness.
Buhari’s family announced his passing through a statement by his spokesperson, Mallam Garba Shehu, praying for Allah’s acceptance of the late leader in Aljannatul Firdaus. Buhari had been receiving medical treatment in the United Kingdom since April 2025, initially for routine check-ups, but his health deteriorated leading to his hospitalization until his death.
Timeline of Muhammadu Buhari’s Life and Career
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Born on December 17, 1942, in Daura, Katsina State, Nigeria.
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Joined the Nigerian Army in 1962 and trained in Nigeria, Great Britain, India, and the United States.
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Played a key role in the 1975 military coup that ousted General Yakubu Gowon.
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Served as military governor of North Eastern State (now Borno) in 1975.
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Appointed federal commissioner for petroleum resources in 1976.
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Became military secretary at the Supreme Military Headquarters in 1977.
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Commanded an army division based in Kaduna by 1979.
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Became military head of state of Nigeria following the December 31, 1983 coup, ruling until August 1985.
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Instituted economic austerity and anti-corruption measures during his military regime but was overthrown in a coup in 1985.
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Detained until 1988 and later entered politics as a civilian.
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Ran unsuccessfully for president in 2003, 2007, and 2011.
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In 2014, became the presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
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Won the historic 2015 presidential election, becoming the first opposition candidate to defeat an incumbent president.
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Re-elected in 2019 and served until May 29, 2023.
Buhari’s tenure was defined by his relentless anti-corruption campaign, efforts to combat insurgency, and ambitious infrastructure projects. However, his administration also faced criticism for economic challenges, human rights concerns, and frequent medical absences abroad, which sparked debates about transparency and governance.
President Bola Tinubu has expressed deep condolences to Buhari’s family, speaking personally with his widow, Mrs. Aishat Buhari. The current administration has ordered flags to fly at half-staff nationwide as a mark of respect. Vice President Kashim Shettima has been dispatched to London to accompany the former president’s remains back to Nigeria.
The African Union Commission Chairperson also mourned Buhari’s passing, highlighting his legacy as a principled leader and committed Pan-Africanist who championed regional integration and peace.
As Nigeria and Africa bid farewell to a defining statesman, the nation prepares to honor his life and legacy in accordance with Islamic rites. Further details on burial arrangements are awaited.
Muhammadu Buhari’s death closes a significant chapter in Nigeria’s history — a leader whose life was marked by resilience, controversy, and an enduring impact on the continent’s political landscape.
May his soul rest in eternal peace.
