Nigeria’s former president, Muhammadu Buhari, has died at the age of 82 after a prolonged illness, confirmed on Sunday, July 13, 2025. His death in a London clinic comes two years after leaving office in 2023, and it’s making headlines globally under searches like President Buhari dies, His Buhari death, and Buhari news.
President Bola Tinubu has ordered Vice President Kashim Shettima to travel to the UK to accompany Buhari’s body home for burial, while national flags fly at half-mast for seven days.
How old was Buhari when he first ruled Nigeria?
Buhari first seized power in December 1983 through a military coup at the age of 41, becoming Nigeria’s military head of state.
How many children does Buhari have?
Buhari was married twice and had 10 children. He is survived by his wife, Aisha Buhari, who served as First Lady from 2015 to 2023.
Muhammadu Buhari children often appeared publicly alongside their mother.
How many times did Buhari rule Nigeria?
Buhari led Nigeria twice: first as a military ruler from 1983–1985, then as a democratically elected president from 2015–2023.
A Soldier, Statesman and Controversial Reformer
Born in Daura, Katsina State on December 17, 1942, Buhari built his reputation as a strict disciplinarian during his military career. As military ruler, he launched the well-known War Against Indiscipline, which brought both praise and criticism for its tough approach.
After being overthrown in 1985 by General Ibrahim Babangida, Buhari rebranded himself as a “converted democrat.” Against the odds, he won the 2015 presidential election, becoming the first opposition candidate to defeat an incumbent president.
Achievements and Challenges as President
Promised to tackle corruption, but many felt systemic reforms fell short.
Banned rice imports to boost local production, leading to a dramatic price surge — a 50kg bag of rice rose from about 7,500 naira under Goodluck Jonathan to over 60,000 naira.
Faced significant security challenges from Boko Haram, Fulani herder clashes, and rising banditry.
Nigeria went into recession partly due to falling oil prices and strict currency policies.
What happened to Buhari?
Buhari died after a long illness, widely reported as blood cancer (leukemia). Human rights activist Omoyele Sowore confirmed this in a social media post, though the family has not issued an official cause.
Where is Buhari now?
His body is being flown back to Nigeria for burial under Islamic rites. Vice President Kashim Shettima is accompanying the remains.
Who is the second president of Nigeria?
Nigeria’s second president was Shehu Shagari, who served from 1979 until Buhari’s coup in 1983.
Legacy and Global Tributes
President Tinubu praised Buhari as “a patriot, soldier, and statesman.” World leaders and the African Union highlighted his commitment to fighting corruption and keeping Nigeria united. Buhari is remembered for his plain speaking, strong discipline, and polarizing economic policies.
Quick Facts Recap: Muhammadu Buhari
Born: December 17, 1942, Daura, Katsina State
Age when first ruled Nigeria: 41
Number of children: 10
Number of times ruled Nigeria: Two (military and civilian)
Survived by: Wife Aisha Buhari
Reported cause of death: Leukemia (blood cancer)
Place of death: London clinic
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To answer popular questions and improve SEO:
How old was Buhari when he first ruled Nigeria?
Buhari first became Nigeria’s military ruler in December 1983 at the age of 41.
How many children does Buhari have?
Buhari had 10 children from his two marriages.
How many times did Buhari rule Nigeria?
Buhari ruled twice: first as a military ruler (1983–1985) and later as an elected president (2015–2023).
Who is the second president of Nigeria?
Nigeria’s second president was Shehu Shagari, who served from 1979 until Buhari’s coup in 1983.
President Buhari dies – what happened?
Buhari died in London aged 82 after a reported battle with blood cancer (leukemia).
Where is Buhari now?
His body is being brought back to Nigeria for burial, with Vice President Kashim Shettima accompanying it.
Aisha Buhari:
Buhari is survived by his wife, Aisha Buhari, and their children.
