Former President and retired Major General Muhammadu Buhari has passed away on July 13, 2025, at the age of 82 . His death marks the end of a long and varied career in both military and civilian leadership.
Born on December 17, 1942, in Daura in northern Nigeria, Buhari’s journey in public service began early. He joined the Nigerian Army in 1962, rising through the ranks to become a Major General. He first held power as Military Head of State from December 31, 1983, to August 27, 1985, after overthrowing President Shehu Shagari .
In the civilian era, Buhari re-entered politics and in 2015, won the presidency under the banner of the All Progressives Congress, defeating incumbent President Goodluck Jonathan. He served two terms from May 29, 2015, until handing over to President Bola Tinubu on May 29, 2023 .
During his civilian presidency, Buhari also held roles as Minister of Petroleum Resources (2015–2023 and previously in 1976–1978) and briefly served as the Governor of Borno State in 1976 .
His tenure was marked by a strong war on corruption—lauded by international partners like the UK—though critics argued that economic and security challenges persisted
