President Muhammadu Buhari: A Comprehensive Biography of Nigeria’s Former Leader
By Abajis, The Peace Finder
Introduction
Muhammadu Buhari, Nigeria’s former President and retired Major General, is one of the most iconic political figures in Nigerian history. Known for his firm stance on anti-corruption, military discipline, and nationalist values, Buhari's leadership has left an indelible mark on Nigeria's political landscape.
This biography explores Muhammadu Buhari’s early life, military career, political journey, achievements, controversies, and legacy — all optimized to give you an in-depth understanding of the man behind the name.
Early Life and Background
Full Name: Muhammadu Buhari
Date of Birth: December 17, 1942
Place of Birth: Daura, Katsina State, Northern Nigeria
Nationality: Nigerian
Ethnicity: Fulani
Religion: Islam
Muhammadu Buhari was born into a Fulani family in the historic town of Daura, located in Katsina State in northwestern Nigeria. He was the 23rd child of his father, Mallam Hardo Adamu, a Fulani chief, and his mother, Zulaihat.
At an early age, Buhari developed a strong sense of discipline and patriotism — values that would shape the rest of his life.
Education
Elementary School: Daura and Mai’adua Primary Schools (1948–1952)
Secondary Education: Katsina Provincial Secondary School (now Government College Katsina) – 1953–1956
Military Training:
Nigerian Military Training College (NMTC), Kaduna
Mons Officer Cadet School, Aldershot, United Kingdom
Defense Services Staff College, India
United States Army War College, Pennsylvania
Military Career
Buhari joined the Nigerian Army in 1961, where he quickly rose through the ranks due to his dedication and discipline. He was deeply involved in significant events in Nigeria’s military history:
1966: Participated in the counter-coup that brought General Yakubu Gowon to power.
1975–1976: Served as Military Governor of the then-Northeastern State.
1976–1978: Federal Commissioner for Petroleum and Natural Resources under General Obasanjo.
1977: Appointed Chairman of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC).
1983: Led the military coup that overthrew the democratic government of President Shehu Shagari.
Head of State (1983–1985)
On December 31, 1983, Muhammadu Buhari became Nigeria’s Military Head of State, ruling under a regime focused on:
War Against Indiscipline (WAI): Promoted order, punctuality, and civil obedience.
Anti-Corruption Drive: Jailed several politicians accused of looting public funds.
Austerity Measures: Introduced tough economic reforms amid dwindling oil revenues.
However, his military rule was also criticized for human rights violations, press censorship, and harsh decrees. On August 27, 1985, he was overthrown by General Ibrahim Babangida in a bloodless coup.
Democratic Transition and Political Journey
After his ouster, Buhari remained largely silent in politics until Nigeria returned to democratic rule in 1999.
He contested for presidency under:
2003: All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP)
2007: ANPP
2011: Congress for Progressive Change (CPC)
2015 marked a turning point. He became the first opposition candidate in Nigeria’s history to defeat an incumbent president — Goodluck Jonathan — under the newly formed All Progressives Congress (APC).
President of Nigeria (2015–2023)
First Term (2015–2019)
Key focus areas:
Anti-corruption: Initiated probes and prosecutions of former public officials.
Security: Pushed back Boko Haram in the Northeast.
Economy: Faced with recession, oil price crashes, and rising inflation.
Social Investment Programs: Launched N-Power, School Feeding, and TraderMoni schemes.
Second Term (2019–2023)
Major highlights:
Infrastructure Development: Expansion of rail lines, roads, and airports.
COVID-19 Response: Managed the pandemic with lockdowns, stimulus packages, and vaccines.
Security Challenges: Banditry and kidnapping rose sharply across northern Nigeria.
End SARS Protests (2020): Nationwide youth-led protests against police brutality.
Personal Life
First Wife: Safinatu Yusuf (divorced) – Deceased
Current Wife: Aisha Buhari (née Halilu)
Children: 10, including Zahra, Yusuf, and Halima
Buhari is known for his modest lifestyle, religious devotion, and love for farming and cattle rearing.
Health Challenges
Between 2016 and 2017, Buhari spent several months abroad receiving medical treatment, sparking nationwide debates about transparency and succession. Despite this, he returned to office and completed his second term in 2023.
Criticisms and Controversies
Though many admired Buhari’s tough stance on corruption and integrity, critics pointed out:
Selective anti-corruption prosecutions
Lack of inclusivity in appointments
Worsening insecurity under his administration
Economic hardships and rising debt
Legacy and Post-Presidency Life
Muhammadu Buhari officially handed over power to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on May 29, 2023. Since leaving office, he has returned to Daura, Katsina State, maintaining a low profile.
His legacy remains divisive: to some, a hero of discipline and anti-corruption; to others, a symbol of missed economic opportunities and deepening national divides.
Conclusion
Love him or loathe him, Muhammadu Buhari has earned his place in Nigerian and African history. From military general to democratically elected president, his journey reflects Nigeria’s evolving political experiment. Understanding Buhari is understanding a crucial chapter of Nigeria’s national story.
📝 Written by Abdulrahman Saeed Ajibola (Abajis, The Peace Finder)
📍 400 Level, Metallurgical and Materials Engineering, AFIT Kaduna
📣 For republication or collaboration, contact via comment
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