London, United Kingdom — The London Clinic, a top-tier private hospital in the UK, has come under renewed public scrutiny following the death of Nigeria’s former President, Muhammadu Buhari.
The late President passed away on Sunday, July 13, 2025, at the Harley Street-based medical institution, widely regarded as one of Europe’s most exclusive and well-equipped private hospitals. His death was confirmed in a statement by his former spokesperson, Mallam Garba Shehu, who prayed for Buhari’s admittance into Aljannatul Firdaus.
Buhari had reportedly travelled to the UK in April for a routine check-up but was later admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) following complications. His nephew, Mamman Daura, revealed that the former leader was in high spirits the night before his death, anticipating discharge. However, he suffered a sudden relapse midday on Sunday, and efforts by the medical team to stabilize him proved unsuccessful.
The London Clinic, where Buhari died, has long been a destination for the world’s elite seeking advanced medical attention. With ICU costs reportedly ranging from £3,000 to £3,500 per night, and equipped with advanced robotic systems and diagnostic technologies, the facility boasts 13 ICU beds, 900 specialists, and caters to over 120,000 patients globally each year.
While the cause of death remains undisclosed, Buhari’s years of recurring health challenges were widely known. He had previously spent over 225 days abroad during his presidency receiving treatment. The latest trip — and his eventual death — has reignited debates over Nigeria’s reliance on foreign hospitals for critical care, especially by top government officials.
Health experts and stakeholders, including leaders of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) and Resident Doctors (NARD), have expressed concern over the persistent neglect of Nigeria’s health infrastructure. Dr. Tope Osundara, President of NARD, lamented that despite significant allocations to the State House Clinic and advocacy against medical tourism, leaders continue to bypass local healthcare.
“It is an indictment,” Dr. Osundara stated. “What message are we sending when our leaders consistently avoid the very hospitals they are meant to improve?”
Buhari’s death has also reignited discussions on the N21 billion Presidential Wing of the State House Clinic, commissioned in 2021. Despite massive funding, the facility has reportedly failed to attract presidential usage.
In a strong reaction, NMA President Prof. Bala Audu criticized statements suggesting Nigerian doctors are incapable of managing critical health cases. He described such claims as both inaccurate and demoralizing, stating that “Nigerian medical professionals are among the best in the world, working under some of the harshest conditions.”
Echoing similar sentiments, Prof. Muhammad Muhammad, President of the Medical and Dental Consultants’ Association of Nigeria, called for consistent investment in health infrastructure, stressing the need to develop super-specialty hospitals within Nigeria’s borders.
“This is about trust and accountability. If the leaders themselves cannot trust the system, how do they expect the citizens to?” he asked.
As Nigerians continue to reflect on the circumstances surrounding Buhari’s passing, many are also questioning the sustainability of a healthcare culture dependent on foreign facilities for survival — especially at a time when thousands of skilled Nigerian doctors are emigrating in search of better work conditions.
By Adeola Olaniya | July 19, 2025
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