'Deeply Saddened': PM Modi Condoles Death Of Former Nigerian President Buhari
Buhari, who led Nigeria twice as a military head of state and a democratic president, passed away at the age of 82 in London, where he had been receiving medical treatment.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday expressed anguish at the death of former Nigerian president Muhammadu Buhari, and praised his wisdom, warmth and unwavering commitment to the friendship with India.
Buhari, who led Nigeria twice as a military head of state and a democratic president, passed away at the age of 82 in London, where he had been receiving medical treatment.
In his condolence message, Modi said on X, 'Deeply saddened by the passing of former President of Nigeria Muhammadu Buhari. I fondly recall our meetings and conversations on various occasions. His wisdom, warmth and unwavering commitment to India-Nigeria friendship stood out."
Deeply saddened by the passing of former President of Nigeria Muhammadu Buhari. I fondly recall our meetings and conversations on various occasions. His wisdom, warmth and unwavering commitment to India–Nigeria friendship stood out. I join the 1.4 billion people of India in…— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 14, 2025
He added, 'I join the 1.4 billion people of India in extending our heartfelt condolences to his family, the people and the government of Nigeria."
All About Buhari
Buhari, a prominent figure in Nigerian politics and military history, served as the President of Nigeria from 2015 to 2023.
A retired Major General in the Nigerian Army, Buhari first came to national attention as a military ruler following a coup in December 1983.
Born on December 17, 1942, in Daura, Katsina State, Buhari joined the Nigerian Army in 1961 and rose through the ranks, participating in key national military campaigns, including the Nigerian Civil War.
His military background heavily influenced his leadership style, both as a military and later a democratic leader.
After being ousted in a 1985 coup, Buhari largely stayed out of the public eye until Nigeria's return to democracy in 1999.
He ran for president three times unsuccessfully before finally winning the 2015 election as the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), defeating incumbent Goodluck Jonathan.
His victory was seen as a historic democratic milestone in Nigeria, marking the first time an opposition candidate unseated a sitting president through the ballot box.
As president, Buhari prioritized anti-corruption efforts, infrastructure development, and the fight against Boko Haram insurgents. However, his administration also faced criticism over economic challenges, rising insecurity, and concerns about human rights.
Buhari chose not to seek a third term and handed over power in May 2023.
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July 14, 2025, 13:06 IST
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