Nigeria is in mourning following the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari, a leader President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has described as “a patriot to the very core, a soldier, and a statesman.”
In a heartfelt national address released late Sunday evening, President Tinubu confirmed that Buhari, 82, died earlier that day, July 13, 2025, at a hospital in the United Kingdom following a prolonged illness.
“With profound sorrow and a heavy heart,” President Tinubu began, “I received the news of the passing of His Excellency, Major General Muhammadu Buhari (Rtd), GCFR, my predecessor… His legacy of service and sacrifice endures.”
Buhari’s life in public service spanned decades—first as a military ruler from 1984 to 1985, and later as a democratically elected president from 2015 to 2023. Throughout both tenures, he was known for his firm discipline, anti-corruption drive, and deep commitment to national unity.
“He led with quiet strength, profound integrity, and an unshakable belief in Nigeria’s potential,” Tinubu said. “He placed the country above personal interest at every turn.”
As Nigeria grapples with the loss, President Tinubu extended personal condolences to the late president’s widow, Aisha Buhari, and the entire Buhari family. He also acknowledged the people of Katsina State and the traditional leaders of the Daura Emirate, Buhari’s birthplace, where his influence remained deeply rooted.
In tribute to Buhari’s national contributions, President Tinubu ordered that all national flags across Nigeria fly at half-staff for seven days beginning July 13. Additionally, he has summoned an emergency session of the Federal Executive Council (FEC) on Tuesday, July 15, to reflect on Buhari’s legacy.
“The Federal Government will accord President Buhari full state honours befitting his towering contributions to our country,” Tinubu assured.
Beyond the formalities, President Tinubu struck a deeply personal and spiritual tone. “May Allah forgive his shortcomings and grant him Al-Jannah Firdaus,” he said. “May his life continue to inspire generations of Nigerians to serve with courage, conviction, and selflessness.”
The announcement has triggered a wave of national and international tributes, as political leaders, foreign governments, and citizens remember Buhari’s leadership style—often stoic, sometimes controversial, but undeniably influential.
Vice President Kashim Shettima is expected to lead a federal delegation to the United Kingdom to oversee the return of Buhari’s remains and coordinate funeral arrangements.
As Nigeria prepares to bid farewell to a former head of state, the focus turns not only to mourning but to preserving the values Buhari represented, discipline, service, and unyielding patriotism.
