Nigeria Mourns: Former President Muhammadu Buhari Dies at 82, Ending an Era of Discipline, Democracy, and Devotion
Nigeria is in mourning following the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari, who died on Sunday, July 13, 2025, at the London Clinic at the age of 82. Known for his signature discipline, modest lifestyle, and historic political legacy, Buhari’s death marks the end of an era in Nigerian politics.
In a brief statement released by the family, Buhari’s passing was confirmed without details of the illness that led to his death. Just days earlier, reports had downplayed the severity of his health condition, stating that he had been discharged and was in “recovery mode.”
Despite his retreat from public life after handing over power in 2023, Buhari remained a towering figure, both admired and critiqued, revered for his anti-corruption stance, military precision, and stoic leadership style.
The Late PRESIDENT RECEIVES IN AUDIENCE WITH HRH EMIR OF DUTSE SANUSI A. ; President Muhammadu Buhari ( during an audience at the State House Abuja. PHOTO; SUNDAY AGHAEZE. APRIL 6TH 2023
Legacy of Leadership: Military and Civilian President
Born on December 17, 1942, in Daura, Katsina State, Muhammadu Buhari rose through military ranks to become one of Nigeria’s most consequential leaders. He served as the military Head of State from 1983 to 1985 and later as a democratically elected president from 2015 to 2023, making him the second-longest serving Nigerian leader—a total of over nine years across both tenures.
He first gained national attention as Nigeria’s Federal Commissioner for Petroleum and Natural Resources and as the first Chairman of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) in the 1970s. He was also the inaugural military governor of Borno State.
From Coup to the Ballot Box: A Symbol of Democratic Transition
After decades in the military, Buhari turned to politics, contesting the presidency five times between 2003 and 2019. It wasn’t until 2015 that he clinched victory under the All Progressives Congress (APC)—ending the 16-year rule of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and becoming the first Nigerian opposition candidate to defeat an incumbent president.
His government launched wide-reaching anti-corruption campaigns, pushed massive infrastructure development, and pursued regional security initiatives. Yet, his administration was also criticized for human rights issues, economic struggles, and perceived ethnic favoritism.
The Late President Muhammadu Buhari attends Virtually the Spud-In Ceremony of the EBENYI – A Well, Middle Benue Trough Nassarawa State
Low-Key Life, High-Impact Legacy
Throughout his life, Buhari projected an image of frugality. In 2015, he declared modest assets: five homes, two mud houses, 270 cows, some land, and $150,000 in savings. Even in retirement, he reportedly lived in only three homes and often rented out one to cover feeding costs.
His spokesperson described his lifestyle as “Spartan,” a trait that endured long after his presidency.
Final Years and Tributes
After stepping down in 2023, Buhari largely kept out of the spotlight, residing in Daura and later Kaduna. His homes became pilgrimage sites for admirers, politicians, and global figures. Notably, African Development Bank President Akinwumi Adesina and several APC governors visited to pay their respects during his final months.
In response to his death, President Bola Tinubu—his political ally and successor—ordered that flags be flown at half-mast and dispatched Vice President Kashim Shettima to accompany Buhari’s body home from London. Tinubu also personally reached out to former First Lady Aisha Buhari to offer condolences.
Buhari in Numbers and Moments:
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Date of Birth: December 17, 1942
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Years in Public Service: Over 50
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Presidencies: Military (1983–1985), Civilian (2015–2023)
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Marriages: Safinatu Yusuf (1971–1988), Aisha Halilu (1989–2025)
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Children: 10
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Asset declaration (2015): 270 cows, 5 homes, 2 mud houses, and a modest bank balance
The Late President Muhammadu Buhari GCFR
A Symbol of Contradiction and Conviction
Loved and criticized in equal measure, Buhari will be remembered as a leader of paradoxes—a military man turned democrat, a disciplinarian who upheld civilian rule, and a politician who shunned flamboyance in an era of excess.
His death invites national reflection on the path Nigeria has walked and the legacy left by one of its most impactful leaders.
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