Former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari, a figure who dominated the nation’s political landscape for decades, died on Sunday in London following a prolonged illness. Buhari, 82, served as Nigeria’s democratically elected president from 2015 to 2023, having previously led the country as a military head of state in the 1980s.
The passing of the former leader was announced by President Bola Tinubu, who directed Vice President Kashim Shettima to travel to the United Kingdom to accompany Buhari’s body back to Nigeria. Flags across the nation have been ordered to fly at half-staff as a mark of respect.
Buhari’s tenure as president (2015-2023) was defined by a focused anti-corruption campaign and significant efforts to improve national infrastructure, though it also faced immense security and economic challenges.
Upon taking office in 2015, Buhari prioritized the fight against corruption and the insurgency led by Boko Haram. His administration launched several anti-graft initiatives, aiming to recover looted funds and instill transparency in governance. He also oversaw the implementation of large-scale infrastructure projects, including major investments in road and rail networks across the country, often referred to as the “Buhari Infrastructure Revolution.”
However, his presidency was marked by significant obstacles. Nigeria faced two economic recessions during his tenure, largely due to fluctuating oil prices and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Security remained a central challenge, with ongoing battles against Boko Haram and the rise of banditry and communal violence, particularly in the northern regions.
