Former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari has died at the age of 82.
His passing was announced on Sunday, July 13, by his former aide, Garba Shehu, who stated that Buhari died this afternoon in a London clinic.
Here are ten key facts about the late President Muhammadu Buhari:
- Birth and Early Life: Born on December 17, 1942, in Daura, Katsina State, Nigeria, Buhari was raised by his mother following his father’s early death.
- Military Background: He joined the Nigerian army in 1962, undergoing training both locally and internationally, and ascended to the rank of Major General. He was involved in several military coups and served as military governor of the North Eastern State (now Borno).
- Head of State (1983–1985): Buhari became Nigeria’s military head of state after a coup on December 31, 1983. His regime was characterized by the “War Against Indiscipline,” a strong anti-corruption stance, and strict economic austerity measures, though it also faced criticism for human rights abuses and media restrictions.
- Detention and Political Struggles: He was overthrown in August 1985 and detained until 1988. Post-detention, he made unsuccessful bids for the presidency in 2003, 2007, and 2011 before his successful campaign in 2015.
- Democratically Elected President (2015–2023): In 2015, Buhari made history as the first opposition candidate to defeat an incumbent Nigerian president, Goodluck Jonathan. He secured re-election for a second term in 2019.
- Presidential Aspirations (Before 2015): Following Nigeria’s return to democratic rule in 1999, Buhari entered politics, running unsuccessfully for president in 2003, 2007, and 2011 before his eventual victory in 2015.
- Infrastructure and Economic Initiatives: His administration initiated Nigeria’s most ambitious infrastructure program since independence, encompassing significant rail, road, and airport projects, alongside reforms in the oil, gas, and power sectors.
- Security Challenges and Boko Haram: Buhari prioritized the fight against Boko Haram and other security threats. Despite successes in reclaiming territory, Nigeria continued to grapple with substantial security and kidnapping challenges.
- Health and Public Perception: His health was a frequent public concern, marked by several extended periods abroad for medical treatment, which led to widespread speculation and rumors during his presidency.
- Death: Muhammadu Buhari passed away on July 13, 2025, at a clinic in London. His death was confirmed by his spokesperson and widely reported in Nigerian media.
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