Former President, Muhammadu Buhari, is currently receiving medical care in the United Kingdom, months after reportedly travelling for a routine check-up.
The 82-year-old, who handed over power on May 29, 2023, after completing two terms in office, has remained overseas since April.
Sources close to his family indicated that the former president initially left Nigeria for a standard medical review but later took ill while in the UK.
“There are conflicting reports about when exactly he became unwell,” a source revealed. “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.”
In response to inquiries, Buhari’s longtime spokesperson, Garba Shehu, confirmed the situation.
“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.”
While the specific nature of his illness and the name of the hospital remain undisclosed, the development has stirred renewed public interest in Buhari’s medical history abroad, a subject that repeatedly sparked national debate during his presidency.
Between 2015 and 2023, Buhari frequently flew to London for medical reasons, a pattern that fueled criticism about the deteriorating state of Nigeria’s healthcare system. Notable trips include:
February 2016: His first medical visit to London for an undisclosed illness, which highlighted the country’s failing health infrastructure.
June 2016: Another trip to the UK for treatment of an ear infection, which drew condemnation from the Nigerian Medical Association over the neglect of local healthcare professionals.
January 2017: A 50-day medical visit to London for “routine check-ups,” which was later extended without any update on his condition.
May 2017: His longest medical leave, lasting 104 days, intensified public concerns over his capacity to lead the nation.
At the peak of his medical visits, reports suggested that a private apartment was secured for him close to a central London hospital to ensure convenience and confidentiality.
According to sources, Buhari’s health reportedly improved after his retirement to his hometown, Daura in Katsina State, but deteriorated again in April 2025, prompting his continued stay abroad for treatment.
With no official communication from the Nigerian government at the time of this report, uncertainty lingers over the former president’s condition and when he might return to the country.
