Nigeria’s Ministry of Petroleum Resources says it received with deep sorrow the news of the passing of His Excellency, Muhammadu Buhari, former President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
A statement released by the ministry acknowledges not only his service as Head of State (1983–1985) and democratically elected President (2015–2023) but also his earlier, pivotal role in shaping Nigeria’s energy landscape.
In 1976, he was appointed Federal Commissioner (now Minister) for Petroleum and Natural Resources under then‑Head of State Olusegun Obasanjo. During this tenure, he became the pioneer Chairman of the newly formed Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) in 1977, today’s National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), serving until 1978.
As President (2015 to 2023), he again took personal charge of the Petroleum Resources Ministry to spearhead necessary reforms that paved the way for the landmark Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) aimed at transparency and modernization of Nigeria’s Oil and Gas Sector.
In the Oil and Gas sector, the Buhari legacy is far-reaching, from foundational infrastructure built during his commissioner years to bold reforms and institutional strengthening as President. His commitment to clean, accountable governance in the petroleum Industry remains a guiding light.
On behalf of the Management and Staff of the Ministry of Petroleum Resources, we express our deepest condolences to his family, the Government, and the people of Nigeria.
May Almighty God grant his soul eternal rest and comfort a nation shaped by his vision and service.