President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed profound sorrow over the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari, describing him as a patriot, a soldier, and a statesman whose legacy will endure for generations.
Buhari died on Sunday, July 13, 2025, at a hospital in the United Kingdom. He was 82.
In an official statement released by the Presidency, Tinubu said: “It is with profound sorrow and a heavy heart that I received the news of the passing of His Excellency, Major General Muhammadu Buhari (Rtd), GCFR, my predecessor, who departed this life today.”
He praised Buhari’s decades of public service and dedication to Nigeria, noting his tenure as military Head of State from January 1984 to August 1985 and as a democratically elected president between 2015 and 2023.
“President Buhari was to the very core, a patriot, a soldier, a statesman. His legacy of service and sacrifice endures,” Tinubu said. “Duty, honour, and a deep commitment to the unity and progress of our nation defined his life.”
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He described Buhari as a leader who stood firm in turbulent times, championed discipline in public service, confronted corruption, and consistently placed the country above personal interest.
President Tinubu extended condolences to Buhari’s widow, Aisha, their children, the entire Buhari family, and the people and government of Katsina State, particularly the Daura Emirate.
“We honour his service. We reflect on his legacy. And we pray for the peaceful repose of his soul,” Tinubu said.
As a mark of respect, Tinubu ordered all national flags to fly at half-staff for seven days starting Sunday. He also announced that the Federal Executive Council will hold an emergency session on Tuesday in Buhari’s honour.
“The Federal Government will accord President Buhari full state honours befitting his towering contributions to our country,” the statement added.
President Tinubu prayed that Allah would forgive Buhari’s shortcomings and grant him Al-Jannah Firdaus, while expressing hope that his life would inspire generations of Nigerians to serve with courage, conviction, and selflessness.