Former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari has passed away at the age of 82. His death was confirmed on Sunday by his spokesperson, Garba Shehu, in a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter). Buhari died in a London hospital after weeks of medical treatment. He had reportedly traveled in April for a routine check-up, which later escalated into a prolonged hospital stay.
The news of Buhari’s death has sparked reflection on a career that left a profound imprint on Nigeria’s political and military landscape. Below is an overview of his life, career, and legacy.
Early Life and Background
Muhammadu Buhari was born on December 17, 1942, in Daura, Katsina State, into a Fulani Muslim family. He was the 23rd child of his father, Adamu, and was raised by his mother, Zulaiha, after his father’s death during his early childhood. His educational journey began in Daura and Maiduguri, progressing through Katsina Middle School and later the Katsina Provincial Secondary School, where he earned his West African School Certificate in 1961.
Military Career
Buhari enlisted in the Nigerian Army in 1961 and trained in Kaduna before heading to Mons Officer Cadet School in Aldershot, UK. His military training spanned Nigeria, the UK, India, and the United States, culminating at the U.S. Army War College (1979–1980).
He rose through the ranks, serving in various capacities including:
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Platoon Commander, Second Infantry Battalion
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Military Governor of the North Eastern State
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Federal Commissioner for Petroleum Resources
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Chairman of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC)
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General Officer Commanding (GOC)
His ascent to national leadership occurred via a military coup on December 31, 1983, ousting the civilian government of Shehu Shagari. Buhari ruled as Nigeria’s Head of State until he was deposed in another coup in August 1985.
Political Journey
Returning to politics after Nigeria’s transition to democracy in 1999, Buhari contested the presidency three times before winning in 2015 under the All Progressives Congress (APC), a coalition he helped form. He defeated incumbent President Goodluck Jonathan, marking the first time in Nigeria’s history that an opposition candidate defeated a sitting president.
Buhari was re-elected in 2019 and served until May 29, 2023. His presidency was defined by his anti-corruption stance, infrastructural investment, and efforts to combat insecurity, particularly from Boko Haram insurgents. Yet his administration was also marked by widespread economic hardship, two recessions, increasing inflation, and concerns over human rights and press freedom.
Health and Later Years
Buhari’s frequent medical visits to the United Kingdom during his presidency stirred public debate, with critics demanding more transparency. His health appeared to stabilize after his tenure ended in 2023, but deteriorated again in April 2025.
Personal Life
Mr. Buhari was married twice. His first marriage was to Safinatu Yusuf in 1971; they separated in 1988. He then married Aisha Halilu in 1989. He had ten children from both marriages. Known for his austere and reserved nature, Buhari maintained a low public profile outside his official engagements.
Legacy
Buhari’s legacy remains one of the most debated in Nigeria’s post-independence history. Supporters remember him as a disciplined, incorruptible leader who prioritized integrity and reform. Critics, however, point to economic mismanagement, deepened poverty, insecurity, and a perceived erosion of democratic values.
His major policies included:
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War Against Indiscipline (1980s): Promoting civic order with strict military-style enforcement.
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Anchor Borrowers’ Programme: Intended to boost local agriculture.
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Border Closures: Designed to encourage local production but criticized for worsening inflation and food shortages.
Despite controversies, Buhari shaped the political discourse for over four decades—first as a military ruler and later as a democratically elected president.
Final Days and National Response
Buhari was awarded national honors shortly before the end of his presidential tenure in 2023. Following his death, tributes have poured in from across the nation and beyond, marking the end of an era for a man who symbolized both hope and hardship for millions of Nigerians.
May his soul rest in peace.
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