Muhammadu Buhari, who served Nigeria as both a military head of state and a democratically elected president, passed away on Sunday, July 13, 2025, at the age of 82. His death was confirmed by his spokesperson, Garba Shehu, in a social media post, stating that the former president died this afternoon in a clinic in London.
Buhari had been in the United Kingdom since April 2025 for what was initially described as a routine medical check-up, but he reportedly fell ill shortly after his arrival and remained hospitalized until his death.
Born on December 17, 1942, in Daura, Katsina State, Nigeria, Buhari had a long and impactful career in public service. He joined the Nigerian Army in 1961 and rose through the ranks, undergoing military training in Nigeria, Great Britain, India, and the United States.
His first stint as Nigeria’s leader came on December 31, 1983, when he became the military Head of State after a coup that ousted President Shehu Shagari. During this period, from 1983 to 1985, his regime was known for its “War Against Indiscipline” campaign, which aimed to promote positive values and combat corruption, though it also faced criticism for its authoritarian methods and human rights concerns. He was later overthrown in another military coup in August 1985 and detained until 1988.
After years in civilian life, Buhari made a remarkable return to the political arena. He unsuccessfully ran for president in 2003, 2007, and 2011. However, in 2015, as the candidate for the All Progressives Congress (APC) party, he made history by becoming the first opposition candidate to defeat an incumbent president in Nigeria, Goodluck Jonathan. He was re-elected in 2019, serving two terms as Nigeria’s democratic president from 2015 to 2023.
During his democratic presidency, Buhari’s administration focused on three key areas: security, economy, and anti-corruption. He launched significant infrastructure projects, including major railway lines (like the Lagos-Ibadan Standard Gauge Rail) and road networks.
His government also made efforts to combat the Boko Haram insurgency in the North-East and address other security challenges such as banditry and kidnappings. Furthermore, his administration introduced various social investment programs aimed at poverty alleviation.
Despite these efforts, his presidency also faced challenges, including economic hardships, persistent insecurity in various parts of the country, and criticism regarding human rights. His frequent medical trips abroad also drew public attention.
