The death of former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari has prompted a wave of heartfelt tributes from leaders across the globe, who hailed his legacy as a pivotal figure in Nigerian and African politics.
Buhari, who served two terms as Nigeria’s democratically elected president from 2015 to 2023, was remembered for his firm leadership, anti-corruption drive, and significant role in fostering international diplomacy, particularly across Africa and the Global South. His passing marks the end of an era in Nigerian politics.
Among the first to publicly pay tribute was Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who took to X (formerly Twitter) on Monday to share his condolences and memories of their collaboration.
“Deeply saddened by the passing of former President of Nigeria Muhammadu Buhari,” Modi wrote.
“I fondly recall our meetings and conversations on various occasions. His wisdom, warmth, and unwavering commitment to the India–Nigeria friendship stood out. I join the 1.4 billion people of India in extending our heartfelt condolences to his family, the people, and the government of Nigeria.”
Buhari had maintained strong bilateral relations with India, positioning Nigeria as a key strategic partner in West Africa.
From East to West Africa, leaders have also joined the chorus of tributes.
Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali, in a solemn message, stated:
“On behalf of the Government and People of Ethiopia, I extend sincere condolences to the family of former President Muhammadu Buhari and to the people and Government of Nigeria. Our thoughts are with you during this time of mourning.”
Meanwhile, Sierra Leone’s President Julius Maada Bio, who also serves as the current ECOWAS Chairman, described Buhari’s death as “a devastating loss to Africa’s democratic fabric.”
“I am deeply saddened to hear about the passing of President Muhammadu Buhari. On behalf of the people of Sierra Leone, I express our heartfelt condolences to his family, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and the Nigerian people during this incredibly difficult time,” Bio posted on X.
Former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo, a long-time peer of Buhari both in military and civilian life, offered a deeply personal tribute.
“At a time like this, we need the totality of the experience—and what I may call statesmanship—of all those who have had the opportunity to run the affairs of this country to get us out of the situation we are in.
He will be surely missed. May his soul rest in perfect peace.”
Buhari, a retired general and former military head of state (1983–1985), later became a symbol of democratic resilience when he returned to office as a civilian president in 2015 after three unsuccessful attempts.
His leadership was marked by a commitment to fighting corruption, enhancing infrastructure, and asserting Nigeria’s influence on the world stage—particularly within multilateral institutions such as ECOWAS, the African Union, and OPEC.
As the world reflects on his life and legacy, tributes continue to pour in—each echoing the same sentiment: Muhammadu Buhari was a formidable figure whose presence on the African and global stage will not be easily forgotten.
