Nigeria is mourning the loss of its former President Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away on Sunday, July 13, 2025, at the age of 82, in a London clinic. The news was confirmed by his family in a statement signed by his former spokesperson, Garba Shehu.
According to the statement, Buhari died peacefully in the clinic after a brief illness. The family described his passing as “a great national loss” and prayed for his soul to rest in Aljannatul Firdaus. Funeral arrangements will be announced by the family in due course, following Islamic rites.
Buhari served as Nigeria’s democratically elected President from 2015 to 2023 and previously ruled as military Head of State from 1983 to 1985. He was known for his anti-corruption agenda, economic policies, and efforts to fight insurgency in the northeast. During his presidency, he implemented key infrastructure projects and promoted agricultural development, but faced criticism for rising insecurity, economic challenges, and alleged human rights abuses.
Tributes and Reactions
The news of Buhari’s passing has sparked an outpouring of tributes from across Nigeria and the international community. Leaders, traditional rulers, civil society groups, and observers have expressed condolences, remembering him as a disciplined and austere leader who left a lasting impact on Nigeria’s governance history.
A state funeral arrangement is anticipated in the coming days, with the presidency expected to announce burial plans in consultation with the Buhari family. National flags are likely to be flown at half-mast in mourning ³.
Legacy
Buhari’s legacy is complex, with some praising his infrastructural strides and social investment programs, while others criticize his administration’s handling of insecurity and economic issues. As a statesman, he made history as the first opposition candidate to defeat an incumbent president in Nigeria’s 2015 election.