Former President Muhammadu Buhari is currently receiving medical treatment in London.
The 82-year-old former Nigerian president, who left office on 29 May 2023 after serving two terms, has been abroad since April this year.
Premium Times reports that sources close to his family say he initially travelled to the United Kingdom for what was supposed to be a routine medical check-up, but then fell ill.
There appears to be some uncertainty about exactly when Buhari became unwell.
Premium Times quoted a source saying: “There are conflicting reports about when exactly he became unwell. 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.”
Garba Shehu, the long-serving spokesperson for Buhari, also confirmed the development.
“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.”
The report does not reveal what illness Buhari is suffering from or which hospital is treating him.
Throughout his time in office from 2015 to 2023, Buhari regularly sought medical care in London, which angered many Nigerians who questioned why their president couldn’t receive treatment at home.
The trips also sparked debates about the poor state of Nigeria’s healthcare system.
The report also said sources claimed that his health improved significantly after leaving office, but deteriorated again in April 2025.
Since then, he has remained overseas receiving treatment.
