By: Daure David, Political Correspondent
The London Clinic, one of the United Kingdom’s most exclusive private hospitals, has once again come under the spotlight—this time, following the passing of Nigeria’s former President, Gen. Muhammadu Buhari (Rtd), on Sunday, July 13, 2025. A new investigation by Saturday PUNCH, published July 19, reveals remarkable details about the elite medical facility and its staggering costs, prompting renewed debate over Nigeria’s healthcare infrastructure.
Loading ...According to recent disclosures, staying one night at The London Clinic can cost up to £3,500—equivalent to over ₦7.1 million at current exchange rates. These figures exclude consultation and treatment charges, which are priced separately. A CT scan costs around £500, while major surgeries range between £10,000 and £13,000. Consultations themselves can vary from £100 to £750 depending on complexity.
Accommodation follows a tiered pricing system:
– Standard room: £1,000–£1,800/night
– VIP1,800–£2,500/night
– Intensive Care Unit (ICU): £3,000–£3,500/night
Founded in 1932, The London Clinic is renowned for treating high-risk and complex conditions. With 10 operating theatres, 13 ICU beds, and over 900 top-tier consultants, the hospital reportedly handles over 120,000 patients annually. Areas of specialisation include:
– Cancer therapies
– Digestive health
– Musculoskeletal conditions
– Robotic and minimally invasive surgeries
Its technologies include da Vinci Xi and NAVIO robotic surgical systems, 3T Siemens MRI, PET-CT scanners, and other state-of-the-art diagnostic platforms.
Buhari, who led Nigeria both as a military head of state (1984–1985) and as a civilian president (2015–2023), had long relied on UK hospitals for medical care. Sources confirmed that the clinic has treated numerous political leaders and British royals over the years. Nigerian doctors formerly employed at the hospital described its operations as “designed for the super-rich,” offering privacy, luxury, and cutting-edge medical interventions.
With a reported Standard Mortality Rate of 0.7 placing it among the top 10% of ICUs in the UK the clinic prides itself on exceptional survival outcomes and high patient satisfaction (95–100%). Its internal peer reviews ensure accountability and ongoing quality improvements.
While the government has not confirmed whether Buhari’s final medical bills were publicly funded, the Remuneration of Former Presidents and Heads of State Act entitles former leaders and their families to medical support domestically or abroad. Critics, however, lament the continued dependence on foreign hospitals, highlighting Nigeria’s failure to establish world-class healthcare facilities at home.
As Nigeria reflects on the legacy of its former leader, his final days at The London Clinic re-ignite a national dialogue one not just about political leadership, but about the enduring health challenges that affect every citizen.
