Fallen Titans: Full List Of Nigerian Presidents And Heads Of State Who Have Died

Former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari passed away on Sunday, July 13, 2025, in a London hospital after a prolonged illness, joining the list of past Nigerian heads of state and presidents who have died. His remains are scheduled to be buried today (Tuesday) in his hometown, Daura, Katsina State.

The late president’s body was transported from the United Kingdom aboard a Nigerian Air Force (NAF) aircraft and will receive a state burial upon arrival in Nigeria.

Here is a list of former Nigerian leaders who have also passed away:

1. Johnson Aguiyi-Ironsi (Military Head of State, 1966)
   Came to power after the January 1966 coup but was overthrown and assassinated during the July 1966 counter-coup.

2. Murtala Mohammed (Military Head of State, 1975–1976)
   Seized power after toppling General Yakubu Gowon but was assassinated during a failed coup in February 1976.

3. Shehu Usman Aliyu Shagari (President, 1979–1983)
   Nigeria’s first executive president; died on December 28, 2018, after a brief illness.

4. Sani Abacha (Military Head of State, 1993–1998)
   Died of a heart attack in June 1998, marking the end of a highly authoritarian regime.

5. Benjamin Nnamdi Azikiwe (President, 1963–1966)
   Nigeria’s first president; passed away on May 11, 1996, at the age of 91.

6. Umaru Musa Yar’Adua (President, 2007–2010)
   Died in office in May 2010 from pericarditis and was buried in Katsina following a national seven-day mourning period.