Muhammadu Buhari, Nigeria’s former military ruler and two-term civilian president, died on July 13, 2025, at the age of 82 in a London hospital. From a young army recruit in Daura to the seat of power in Abuja, Buhari’s life shaped key moments in Nigeria’s modern history.
Here are 15 defining moments from his journey:
1. Born in Daura – 1942
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Muhammadu Buhari was born on December 17, 1942, in Daura, Katsina State, into a Fulani family. The 23rd child of his father, Buhari lost his father in childhood and grew up under the care of his mother.
2. Joined the Nigerian Army – 1961
At age 19, Buhari enlisted in the Nigerian Army. He trained in Nigeria, India, the United Kingdom, and the United States, laying the foundation for his future military career.
3. Petroleum Minister – 1976
Following the 1976 coup that killed General Murtala Muhammed, Buhari became Federal Commissioner for Petroleum under General Olusegun Obasanjo.
4. Military Governor of North-East – 1975
Before joining the Petroleum Ministry, Buhari served as Military Governor of the North-East, overseeing a vast region of Nigeria during turbulent years.
5. Led 1983 Coup, Became Head of State
On December 31, 1983, Buhari toppled President Shehu Shagari in a military coup and became Head of State. He cited widespread corruption and mismanagement as reasons for the takeover.
6. War Against Indiscipline – 1984
His regime launched the controversial War Against Indiscipline (WAI), promoting public order but drawing criticism over human rights violations.
7. Overthrown in a Palace Coup – 1985
On August 27, 1985, General Ibrahim Babangida ousted Buhari in a bloodless coup. He was detained for over two years.
8. Entered Politics – 2003
After retiring from military service, Buhari contested unsuccessfully for the presidency three times – in 2003, 2007, and 2011 – under different political platforms.
9. Historic Presidential Victory – 2015
In 2015, Buhari defeated incumbent President Goodluck Jonathan, becoming Nigeria’s first opposition candidate to unseat a sitting president.
10. Re-elected for Second Term – 2019
Buhari secured a second term after defeating Atiku Abubakar. His administration faced criticism for economic woes and worsening insecurity.
11. Economic and Security Challenges
His two terms were marked by two economic recessions, rising inflation, and widespread insecurity from Boko Haram, banditry, and separatist agitations.
12. #EndSARS Protests – 2020
In October 2020, the EndSARS protests against police brutality rocked Nigeria. The government’s handling of the Lekki toll gate incident drew international condemnation.
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13. Peaceful Transfer of Power – 2023
After eight years in office, Buhari peacefully handed over to President Bola Tinubu on May 29, 2023, respecting Nigeria’s two-term constitutional limit.
14. Quiet Retirement in Daura
Buhari retired to his hometown Daura but frequently visited London for medical care. He remained largely silent on national affairs.
15. Died in London – July 13, 2025
Buhari passed away in a London hospital following a long illness. President Tinubu has declared three days of national mourning, with flags flying at half-mast nationwide.
