Biography of Muhammadu Buhari: Soldier, Statesman, and Nigeria’s Former President
Muhammadu Buhari, born on December 17, 1942, in Daura, Katsina State, Northern Nigeria, is a prominent figure who has shaped Nigeria’s political journey for decades. His story spans life as a soldier, military leader, opposition politician, and a two-term democratic president, leaving behind a complex legacy marked by discipline, anti-corruption campaigns, and controversy.
Early Life and Education
Born into a Fulani family, Muhammadu was the 23rd child of his father, Adamu Bafallaje. Growing up in Daura, young Buhari was raised mostly by his mother, Zulaihat, after his father passed away during his early childhood. Despite coming from a large family, he was known for his quiet demeanor, discipline, and determination.
He began his primary education in Daura and continued in Mai’adua, before enrolling in Katsina Provincial Secondary School (now Government College, Katsina) from 1956 to 1961. Teachers and classmates described him as serious-minded, studious, and well-mannered, traits that foreshadowed his military career.
Military Career and Early Roles
Buhari’s journey into the military began in 1962 when he joined the Nigerian Military Training College (NMTC). In October 1963, he was sent to the United Kingdom for officer cadet training at Mons Officer Cadet School, Aldershot. He was commissioned a Second Lieutenant and posted to the 2nd Infantry Battalion in Abeokuta.
Buhari participated in significant military operations during Nigeria’s Civil War between 1967 and 1970, serving as an officer in the 1st Division under General Mohammed Shuwa. He was commended for his strict discipline and leadership in operations around Nsukka and other eastern regions.
In the 1970s, his career continued to rise. He became Military Secretary at the Army Headquarters and later served as Governor of the then North-Eastern State from 1975 to 1976 under General Murtala Mohammed’s regime. The vast state under his governance included present-day Borno, Bauchi, Gombe, Yobe, Adamawa, and Taraba States.
Between 1976 and 1978, Buhari was appointed Federal Commissioner (Minister) for Petroleum and Natural Resources under General Olusegun Obasanjo. He played a role in the establishment of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) and served as its first Chairman, overseeing oil policy during the global oil boom.
Military Head of State (1983–1985)
By the early 1980s, Nigeria faced growing economic hardship, corruption, and political instability. On December 31, 1983, Buhari led a military coup that overthrew the civilian government of President Shehu Shagari.
His government, under the Supreme Military Council, prioritized restoring discipline through the “War Against Indiscipline (WAI)” campaign, which enforced social order and anti-corruption measures. Civil servants were expected to arrive at work on time, queues were organized, and Nigerians were urged to show patriotism.
However, the regime attracted criticism for harsh crackdowns on civil liberties, including arrests of journalists, retroactive decrees, and long prison sentences for politicians convicted of corruption. Many human rights organizations condemned these actions as excessive.
Buhari’s regime introduced stringent economic policies aimed at reducing Nigeria’s debt and controlling importation. The administration favored austerity measures, which, while intended to stabilize the economy, caused hardship for many citizens.
On August 27, 1985, Buhari’s government was toppled in a bloodless coup led by General Ibrahim Babangida. Buhari was arrested and detained for over three years, during which he kept a low profile.
Return to Civilian Politics
After his release, Buhari distanced himself from politics for some years. However, by the late 1990s, he emerged as a significant figure in Nigeria’s return to democracy. His reputation as a disciplined, incorruptible leader appealed to Nigerians frustrated by widespread corruption and mismanagement.
He contested for president in 2003 under the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP) but lost to incumbent President Olusegun Obasanjo. He ran again in 2007 and 2011, each time unsuccessfully, though he maintained significant support, particularly in Northern Nigeria.
Presidency (2015–2023)
Buhari’s persistence paid off in 2015 when he ran under the newly formed All Progressives Congress (APC) and defeated incumbent President Goodluck Jonathan. This historic win marked the first time a sitting Nigerian president lost a democratic election.
As president, Buhari focused on three core areas: fighting corruption, strengthening security, and improving the economy. His government launched high-profile anti-corruption cases and recovered significant sums of looted funds. Programs like N-Power aimed to reduce youth unemployment, while infrastructure projects sought to boost the economy.
Nonetheless, his administration faced severe challenges:
- Security: Despite initial successes against Boko Haram, insecurity worsened in other regions, with banditry, kidnappings, and clashes between farmers and herders.
- Economy: The country slipped into recession twice under his leadership, fueled by falling oil prices and the COVID-19 pandemic’s impact.
- Criticism: Buhari faced allegations of marginalization of certain regions, perceived slowness in decision-making, and declining press freedom.
In 2019, Buhari was re-elected for a second term, defeating Atiku Abubakar of the PDP. His final term ended in May 2023, when he handed over power to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Personal Life
Buhari is known for living a spartan lifestyle. His reputation for personal integrity earned him both respect and criticism for being rigid or aloof.
He married his first wife, Safinatu Yusuf, in 1971. They had five children before divorcing in 1988. In 1989, he married Aisha Halilu, who served as Nigeria’s First Lady from 2015 to 2023. They have several children together.
Outside politics, Buhari enjoys reading, farming, and reflecting on national issues. He is a devout Muslim and performs the Hajj pilgrimage whenever possible.
Legacy
Muhammadu Buhari’s legacy is deeply complex. To supporters, he symbolizes discipline, patriotism, and a leader determined to cleanse Nigeria of corruption. To critics, his rule—both military and democratic—was marked by authoritarian tendencies, economic challenges, and unfulfilled promises.
Regardless of divided opinions, Buhari remains one of Nigeria’s most influential leaders. His life story reflects the nation’s struggle between authoritarianism and democracy, economic turmoil and stability, and the quest for national unity.
Read Also: Former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari Dies in London at 82
Further on: History of Muhammad buhari -Wikipedia
