Nigeria is enveloped in grief following the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari, who died on Sunday, July 13, 2025, at the age of 82 in a London hospital after a prolonged illness. Eminent Nigerians, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, former Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo, Goodluck Jonathan, and Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (IBB), alongside governors, monarchs, and international figures, have poured out heartfelt tributes, mourning the loss of a patriot, soldier, and statesman who left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s history.
President Tinubu, in a personally signed statement, expressed profound sorrow, describing Buhari as a “patriot, soldier, and statesman” who served Nigeria with “honour, integrity, and unwavering dedication to national unity.” Tinubu, who succeeded Buhari in 2023, highlighted his predecessor’s commitment to discipline in public service and his quiet strength during turbulent times. He ordered national flags to fly at half-mast for seven days and summoned an emergency Federal Executive Council (FEC) session on Tuesday, July 15, to honor the late leader. Tinubu also extended condolences to Buhari’s widow, Aisha, his family, and the people of Katsina State, particularly the Daura Emirate, where Buhari hailed from.
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo, speaking from Abeokuta, Ogun State, described Buhari’s death as a significant loss to Nigeria, especially at a time when the nation needs the wisdom of its past leaders. “It is with a heavy heart that I received the news of the passing of my colleague, comrade, and fellow patriot, General Muhammadu Buhari,” Obasanjo said. He praised Buhari’s roles as a soldier, administrator, and statesman, noting that his demise leaves a void at a critical juncture in Nigeria’s history.
Former President Goodluck Jonathan called Buhari a “true patriot” whose life was marked by devotion to Nigeria. In a condolence message, Jonathan emphasized Buhari’s legacy of honesty, discipline, and commitment to public service, praying for comfort for his family and all Nigerians.
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General Ibrahim Babangida (IBB), a coursemate and contemporary of Buhari, shared a deeply personal tribute, reflecting on their bond forged at the Nigerian Military Training College in Kaduna in 1962. “Muhammadu stood out, quiet yet resolute, principled yet humble, deeply patriotic and fiercely loyal to Nigeria,” IBB said. Despite past tensions, including the 1985 coup that ousted Buhari, IBB affirmed that Buhari’s sincerity and patriotism were never in doubt.
Vice President Kashim Shettima described Buhari’s death as “the biggest loss Nigeria has ever incurred in recent times,” expressing grief after visiting the former president in London at Tinubu’s behest, hoping for his recovery. Shettima called it a “black Sunday” for Nigeria, mourning the loss of one of its greatest leaders.
Governors across the country joined in mourning. Katsina State Governor Dikko Radda, speaking through his Chief Press Secretary, described Buhari as a “father figure” and an “illustrious son” whose loss reverberates beyond Katsina to the entire nation. Governors Alex Otti (Abia), Ademola Adeleke (Osun), and Sheriff Oborevwori (Delta) also expressed deep sorrow, with Adeleke noting Buhari’s embodiment of integrity in governance.
Traditional rulers, including the Ooni of Ife, and other prominent figures like former Vice Presidents Atiku Abubakar and Yemi Osinbajo, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and Speaker of the House Tajudeen Abbas, paid tribute to Buhari’s legacy of discipline and patriotism. Atiku described him as a “symbol of Nigeria’s resilience,” while Osinbajo highlighted his commitment to public service.
The African Union (AU), the U.S. Mission in Nigeria, and the Chinese Embassy also extended condolences. The U.S. Mission praised Buhari’s efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s democratic institutions, while the Chinese Embassy noted his contributions to China-Nigeria relations. Sierra Leone’s leadership expressed solidarity, calling his death a “devastating loss.”
Muhammadu Buhari, born on December 17, 1942, in Daura, Katsina State, served as Nigeria’s military head of state from 1984 to 1985 and as democratically elected president from 2015 to 2023. His tenure was marked by a strong stance against corruption, efforts to combat Boko Haram, and a focus on discipline in public service. Despite controversies, including economic challenges and health concerns during his presidency, Buhari’s cult following in northern Nigeria and his reputation for integrity remain defining aspects of his legacy.
Buhari’s death was confirmed by his spokesperson, Mallam Garba Shehu, who announced that the former president passed away in a London clinic. He will be laid to rest in his hometown of Daura, Katsina State, with full state honors as directed by President Tinubu.
As Nigeria mourns, security has been heightened around Buhari’s residences in Daura and Kaduna, with sympathizers initially restricted from accessing his Kaduna home. The nation reflects on a leader whose life was defined by service, discipline, and an unwavering commitment to Nigeria’s unity. As tributes continue to pour in, Buhari’s legacy as a towering figure in Nigeria’s history endures, inspiring future generations.
