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Former President Muhammadu Buhari has reportedly fell ill and his receiving medical treatment in London, United Kingdom.
Buhari was President of Nigeria from May 29, 2015 to May 29 2023 – serving two terms as President.
Sources close to his family told Premium Times that Buhari initially travelled to the United Kingdom for what was described as a routine medical check-up, but subsequently took ill.
“There are conflicting reports about when exactly he became unwell,” a source said.
“Some say he fell ill in Nigeria and was flown out. Others insist he only took ill after arriving in London for regular medical checks.”
This information was confirmed by Buhari’s former Senior Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Garba Shehu.
He said: “Following your enquiry, I wish to state as follows: It is true that the former president, Muhammadu Buhari, is unwell. He has been receiving treatment in the UK.
“You would recall he made it known that he was going for his annual medical check-up. He became ill there, but I am happy to announce to you that he is doing well in his recovery while receiving treatment. We pray for his healthy recovery.”
However, both Shehu and the sources failed to disclose Buhari’s ailment and the identity of the hospital where he is being treated.
During Buhari’s time in office between 2015 and 2023, he regularly sought medical care in London.
Some notable instances include:
- February 2016: Mr Buhari made his first medical trip to London for an undisclosed ailment, raising concerns about the state of Nigeria’s own health infrastructure.
- June 2016: He returned to the UK to treat an ear infection, a trip that drew criticism from the Nigerian Medical Association for sidelining local expertise.
- January 2017: He spent 50 days in London for “routine medical check-ups.” His office later extended the trip without disclosing any details of his condition.
- May 2017: Mr Buhari embarked on his most extended medical absence, spending 104 days in London, which stirred intense public concern about his fitness to govern.
At the height of his treatment regime, an apartment was reportedly secured for him near his hospital in central London to facilitate easier and discreet access to the facility.
Sources say his health improved significantly after he left office, but deteriorated again in April 2025. Since then, he has remained overseas receiving treatment.
