President Bola Tinubu, alongside former Nigerian leaders and top officials, gathered in Daura today, July 14, 2025

On Sunday, a statement released by his Special Adviser in Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, revealed that "President Tinubu has offered his sincerest condolences to Mrs. Aishat Buhari, the widow of the former President."

The announcement, titled ‘President Tinubu Shares News of President Buhari’s Death, Sends VP Shettima To The UK To Bring Body Home,’ further disclosed, "The president has instructed Vice President Kashim Shettima to travel to the United Kingdom to assist in returning President Muhammadu Buhari’s body to Nigeria."

To honor the deceased leader, Tinubu ordered that flags be flown at half-mast. Additionally, the President scheduled an urgent meeting of the Federal Executive Council for Tuesday, July 15, 2025, as a tribute to the former President.

In a heartfelt message personally signed by him that evening, Tinubu affirmed that Buhari would receive full state honors.

He stated, “In memory of our former leader, I have directed that national flags be flown at half-staff throughout the country for seven days starting today.”

He further mentioned, “An emergency meeting of the Federal Executive Council has been arranged for Tuesday, dedicated in his memory.”

Expressing his deep sorrow, the President noted that Buhari's death has left him with “profound sadness,” emphasizing that Nigeria has lost "a soldier, a patriot, a statesman."

"At his core, President Buhari epitomized these qualities. His legacy of dedication and sacrifice will endure," he continued.

"Buhari committed himself to Nigeria’s service, initially as a military leader from January 1984 until August 1985, then as an elected President from 2015 until 2023. His life was marked by duty, honor, and a strong commitment to the nation’s unity and growth,” Tinubu wrote.

The President also portrayed Buhari as someone who “remained steadfast during challenging times, leading with quiet strength, integrity, and unwavering faith in Nigeria’s future.”

He commended Buhari’s initiatives against corruption and his promotion of discipline within public service.

“He prioritized discipline in public office, tackled corruption courageously, and always placed the country’s needs ahead of his own,” stated Tinubu.

In his tribute, President Tinubu also recognized the residents and traditional leaders of Daura, Buhari’s hometown located in Katsina State.

“In this national period of mourning, I would like to express my heartfelt condolences to his dear wife, Aisha, with whom I have maintained constant communication, as well as to his children, the entire Buhari family, and all who loved and respected him.”

"I also express my condolences to both the people and government of Katsina State, especially to the citizens and traditional leaders of Daura Emirate," he remarked.

President Tinubu assured the Nigerian public that the Federal Government would arrange a funeral that honors Buhari's "significant contributions to our nation," praying for Allah to grant him eternal peace.

"We celebrate his service. We contemplate his legacy. And we wish for the tranquility of his soul," he stated, adding, "May Allah pardon his faults and grant him Al-Jannah Firdaus. Furthermore, may his life continue to motivate future generations of Nigerians to act with bravery, integrity, and generosity."

The octogenarian had traveled to London at the end of June for follow-up treatment related to an undisclosed illness.

During his two-term presidency, Buhari’s health necessitated numerous medical leaves.

He made at least 13 trips to the UK for health reasons throughout his time in office.

His first documented medical visit took place in June 2016, shortly after he began his presidency, lasting for 10 days.

Yet, by 2017, he began to take more frequent and longer medical absences.

In May 2017, Buhari flew to London and stayed for more than 100 days, representing his longest medical leave from Nigeria and prompting worries about the distribution of presidential responsibilities.

His travels were often announced unexpectedly, typically accompanied by brief official notices that they were for "routine check-ups."

From 2018 to 2021, Buhari reportedly went to London for medical treatment at least once a year, with trips recorded in April 2021 and March 2022.

His last confirmed medical visit as president occurred in October 2022, just months prior to the conclusion of his term.

In the meantime, tributes and messages of sympathy have poured in since the news of Buhari's passing became known.

Obasanjo, Babangida, Osinbajo

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo characterized the late Buhari as a statesman, a fellow leader, a respected military figure, and a comrade whose absence will be deeply felt.

Obasanjo, who led Nigeria first as a military ruler in 1976 and later as an elected president from 1999 to 2007, expressed that it is unfortunate the Katsina-born leader passed away when his experience is urgently needed to address the nation’s numerous challenges.

He shared these thoughts while speaking to reporters on Sunday.

Obasanjo stated, "I learned of the passing of my colleague, comrade, and fellow national leader, Gen. Muhammad Buhari. In every role he played—as an administrator, a soldier, and a statesman—he gave his all to our nation.

"His demise represents a significant loss for the country, especially during a time when we require the full wisdom and experience of those who have previously governed to navigate our current circumstances.

"His absence will be profoundly felt, and may his soul rest in eternal peace."