PM Modi Expresses Deep Sorrow Over Demise Of Former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed profound grief on Monday following the death of former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari.

PM Modi fondly remembered Buhari’s warm persona and his unwavering dedication to fostering strong ties between India and Nigeria.

Buhari, who served as Nigeria’s President from 2015 until 2023, passed away in London on Sunday at the age of 82 after receiving medical treatment in the British capital.

Taking to X, PM Modi posted, “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 extending our heartfelt condolences to his family, the people and the government of Nigeria.”

A distinguished leader

Born on 17 December 1942, Muhammadu Buhari held significant roles in Nigeria’s military and civilian leadership throughout his lifetime.

He first led Nigeria as a military ruler during the 1980s before returning to power as a democratically elected president in 2015.

Notably, Buhari became the first opposition candidate in Nigeria’s history to defeat a sitting president.

Re-elected in 2019, Buhari completed his second term and peacefully handed over power to his successor, Bola Tinubu, on 29 May 2023.

Buhari firmly focused on national security, implemented anti-corruption measures, and promoted economic diversification during his tenure.

His administration launched robust campaigns against the Boko Haram insurgency in Nigeria’s northeast and undertook significant efforts to recover embezzled public funds.

Moreover, under his leadership, Nigeria made notable progress in infrastructure development and agricultural reforms, aiming to strengthen the country’s economic foundations.

In tribute to the late statesman, Nigerian President Bola Tinubu has ordered that national flags be flown at half-mast as a mark of respect for Buhari’s legacy and service to the nation.

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