Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Muhammadu Buhari, the former President of Nigeria, who died at the age of 82 in London, where he had been receiving medical treatment. Buhari breathed his last in London, where he had been undergoing medical treatment.
Sharing his heartfelt condolences on social media platform X, PM Modi wrote,
The Journey of Buhari: Soldier, Reformer, President
Buhari was a towering figure in Nigeria’s political and military history. He was born on December 17, 1942, in Daura, Katsina State. He joined the Nigerian Army in 1961 and quickly rose through the ranks. He played active roles in various key military operations, including the Nigerian Civil War. His military background heavily influenced his leadership style, both as a soldier and later a democratic leader.
His national prominence grew when he took power following a military takeover in December 1983. He ruled Nigeria as a military head of state from 1983 to 1985. During this short but significant tenure, Buhari became known for his strict anti-corruption policies and tough economic measure. His leadership style drew criticism for limiting civil freedoms.
After being removed in 1985, Buhari stepped back from the spotlight for several years. He retired as Major General in the Nigerian Army. However, with Nigeria's return to democratic rule in 1999, he made a political comeback. Despite losing presidential bids three times, he finally won the 2015 election as the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), defeating then-President Goodluck Jonathan.
This victory was a landmark in Nigeria’s democratic journey, marking the first peaceful transition of power from an incumbent president to an opposition leader.
Buhari served as the elected President of Nigeria from 2015 to 2023. As a civilian leader, he focused on tackling corruption, investing in infrastructure, and combating the Boko Haram insurgency. While his leadership earned praise for certain reforms, his administration also faced criticism over economic difficulties, growing insecurity, and human rights concerns.
Whether in uniform or in civilian clothes, Buhari's presence left a long lasting mark on Nigeria’s political landscape. His disciplined and no-nonsense approach shaped by his military background that defined much of his leadership style. Despite facing both admiration and opposition during different phases of his career, he remained a determined and resilient figure.
As the world remembers Muhammadu Buhari, tributes continue to pour in from global leaders. Prime Minister Modi’s message stands as a reminder of the strong India-Nigeria ties that Buhari helped strengthen through his statesmanship and warm diplomacy.
