By Atoyebi Nike
Tributes have continued to pour in from across the globe following the death of former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away on Sunday, July 13, 2025. World leaders, diplomats, and institutions have commended his legacy of service, discipline, and dedication to national unity.
The U.S. Mission in Nigeria expressed its condolences in a statement posted on social media, describing Buhari as “a leader whose life was defined by service, discipline, and a commitment to restore integrity to public office.” The mission also praised his contribution to Nigeria’s democratic development, saying, “His legacy includes efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s democratic institutions.”
Similarly, the Chinese Embassy in Nigeria remembered Buhari as “a resolute leader” whose efforts toward fostering China-Nigeria relations will be remembered. “His unwavering dedication to Nigeria’s unity and progress leaves an enduring legacy,” the statement read.
From East Africa, Ethiopia’s Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali sent his condolences to Buhari’s family and the Nigerian people. In a message shared on his official X (formerly Twitter) handle, he wrote, “Our thoughts are with you during this time of mourning.”
Sierra Leone’s President and ECOWAS Chairman, Julius Maada Bio, also paid tribute, calling Buhari’s passing “a devastating loss.” He extended heartfelt sympathies to President Bola Tinubu, Buhari’s family, and the people of Nigeria, describing the late president as “a former leader of great stature.”
From within Nigeria, former President Olusegun Obasanjo shared a heartfelt message, recalling Buhari as “a colleague, a comrade, a cool patriot.” Obasanjo acknowledged Buhari’s contributions across military, administrative, and statesman roles. “He will be sorely missed,” Obasanjo stated, adding that Nigeria still needs the wisdom of experienced leaders to navigate its challenges.
Also reacting to the news, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO), expressed shock and sorrow. “Unbelievable! I did not know just how ill HE President Buhari was… I have just learned that he passed away. I am so very sad. May his soul rest in perfect peace,” she posted on X.
Buhari, who died at 82, served as Nigeria’s democratically elected president from 2015 to 2023 and as military head of state from 1984 to 1985. His passing has been marked by official mourning, with flags flying at half-mast and preparations underway for his burial in Daura, Katsina State, according to Islamic rites.
