University of Ibadan Mourns the Passing of Former President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR

University of Ibadan Mourns the Passing of Former President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR

The University of Ibadan (UI) joins the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the global community in profound mourning following the passing of His Excellency Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, former Military Head of State (1983–1985) and democratically elected President (2015–2023). Buhari, 82, died on 13 July 2025 in London, United Kingdom, after a lifetime of service to Nigeria.

President Buhari’s legacy is etched in Nigeria’s modern history. As the first opposition candidate to unseat an incumbent president (2015), he championed democratic resilience. His tenure was marked by anti-corruption initiatives, security sector reforms, and infrastructural development. Despite health challenges that spurred baseless rumours of cloning during his presidency—which he firmly denied in 2018—Buhari exemplified fortitude, declaring, “This is the real me; I assure you”.

The University acknowledges his unwavering commitment to education, notably through policies supporting academic excellence and national unity. His condolence messages for revered scholars like Professor Theophilus Oladipo Ogunlesi (Nigeria’s first Professor of Medicine) and Dr. Peter P. Ekeh reflected his deep respect for intellectual legacy.

University of Ibadan shares a unique bond with the late president. In January 2022, Buhari mourned the passing of Oba Saliu Adetunji, the 41st Olubadan of Ibadan, whose funeral rites were attended by UI leaders. Buhari praised the monarch’s “visionary and compassionate leadership,” values UI upholds. The University College Hospital (UCH), a UI affiliate, also stood as a pillar of healthcare during his presidency, underscoring institutional synergies.

President Buhari’s life was a testament to duty, sacrifice, and patriotism. From his military service in the Nigerian Civil War to his democratic leadership, he shaped our nation’s trajectory. His dignity in confronting health challenges silenced the noise of conspiracy. UI honours his legacy by rededicating itself to scholarship that serves Nigeria’s unity and progress.”

The university extends heartfelt condolences to:
– President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR and the Federal Government,
– Hajia Aisha Buhari and the entire Buhari family,
– The people of Daura, Katsina State, Buhari’s birthplace.

As Nigeria mourns, UI urges citizens to uphold Buhari’s cherished virtues: generosity, tolerance, and devotion to unity.