On July 13, 2025, Nigeria lost one of its most consequential and controversial leaders, President Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away at the age of 82 in London after a prolonged illness. His journey from a young boy in Daura to military ruler, and later a democratically elected president, shaped the course of Nigeria’s modern history in ways that continue to inspire debate among Nigerians and observers worldwide.
This comprehensive biography explores Buhari’s childhood, military career, headship as a military ruler, democratic presidency, personal life, controversies, and the legacy he leaves behind in Africa’s most populous nation.
Early Life and Upbringing in Daura
Muhammadu Buhari was born on December 17, 1942, in Daura, Katsina State, into a Fulani family. His father, Mallam Hardo Adamu, was a Fulani chief and his mother, Zulaihat, raised him after the death of his father when Buhari was just about four years old. Growing up in northern Nigeria, Buhari experienced the challenges of a young boy living in a region marked by colonial transitions and post-war turbulence.
His early education was at Katsina Provincial Secondary School, where he showed interest in discipline and leadership, laying the foundation for the military career he would later pursue. He was known to be quiet, serious, and deeply religious from a young age, traits that would follow him into the corridors of power. The community upbringing in Daura deeply influenced his worldview, which was anchored on discipline, modesty, and a strong sense of duty.
Military Ascension and Training
In 1961, Muhammadu Buhari enlisted in the Nigerian Army, attending the Nigerian Military Training College in Kaduna before proceeding to Mons Officer Cadet School in Aldershot, England. His military career saw him attend several advanced courses, including the Defence Services Staff College in India and the United States Army War College.
As a young officer, Buhari was disciplined, firm, and respected for his composure under pressure. His service years were marked by commitment and a reputation for incorruptibility, which would later become central to his public image during his political career. Buhari’s participation in various trainings exposed him to global military strategies, and he brought back knowledge that he hoped to implement in improving Nigeria’s security landscape.
Role in the Nigerian Civil War
During the Nigerian Civil War (1967-1970), Buhari served as a young officer, rising through the ranks rapidly due to his competence on the field. He commanded the 2nd Infantry Battalion and was recognized for his tactical knowledge and strictness in enforcing discipline among his troops.
His experiences during the war cemented his resolve on the need for national unity, and he viewed the military as a tool to preserve Nigeria’s territorial integrity. The war period also exposed him to the challenges of governance in a fractured society, shaping his views on federal unity and the need to maintain order as a pathway to development.
Post-War Military Governance
Following the war, Buhari served in various capacities within the Nigerian Army and the government. He was appointed as the Military Governor of the North-Eastern State in 1975, where he focused on infrastructural development, education, and the stabilization of the region after the war.
His leadership style was characterized by a no-nonsense approach to corruption and a demand for accountability from civil servants and military officers alike. Buhari also served as the Federal Commissioner for Petroleum and Natural Resources under the regime of General Olusegun Obasanjo from 1976 to 1978, a position that brought him into the limelight in Nigeria’s oil-rich governance structure.
The 1983 Military Coup
On December 31, 1983, Muhammadu Buhari led a military coup that overthrew the democratically elected government of President Shehu Shagari, citing corruption, economic mismanagement, and the need to save Nigeria from collapse. Buhari’s rise to power was welcomed by many Nigerians who were frustrated with the inefficiencies and corruption in the civilian administration.
His government immediately implemented policies aimed at restoring discipline, curbing corruption, and stabilizing the economy. The coup was seen by some as a necessary intervention, while others criticized it as a setback for Nigeria’s young democracy.
War Against Indiscipline
One of the hallmarks of Buhari’s military regime was the ‘War Against Indiscipline’ (WAI), launched in March 1984. The campaign sought to instill public morality, adherence to law and order, respect for elders, and patriotism among Nigerians. While the initiative led to some improvements in public conduct, including the reduction of bribery in public offices and improved environmental sanitation, it was also criticized for its harsh implementation, which included public beatings and the enforcement of long queues.
Buhari’s insistence on discipline at all costs reflected his belief that Nigeria could only progress through stringent measures, a stance that remained consistent throughout his public service.
Overthrow and Detention
On August 27, 1985, Buhari’s government was overthrown in a bloodless coup led by General Ibrahim Babangida, who cited Buhari’s inflexibility and inability to adapt to economic realities as reasons for the takeover. Buhari was subsequently detained for nearly three years, during which he maintained his stance on the principles of discipline and accountability.
His time in detention solidified his image among supporters as a man of integrity who had been wronged by the system, while critics argued that his policies had become unsustainable. Buhari’s refusal to compromise on corruption and indiscipline remained the core narrative that followed him into his later political career.
Re-entry into Politics
After being released in 1988, Buhari stayed away from active politics for several years, focusing on his role in community development and serving on various boards. However, the return to democratic rule in 1999 reignited his interest in governance, and in 2003, he contested the presidential election under the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP) but lost to President Olusegun Obasanjo.
Buhari contested again in 2007 and 2011, persistently campaigning against corruption, insecurity, and poor governance. Although he faced repeated defeats, his popularity, particularly in northern Nigeria, continued to grow, setting the stage for his eventual victory in 2015.
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2015 Electoral Victory and Democratic Presidency
In 2015, Muhammadu Buhari contested under the All Progressives Congress (APC) and won the presidential election, defeating incumbent President Goodluck Jonathan in what became a historic moment for Nigeria’s democracy. This marked the first time in Nigeria’s history that an incumbent president lost to an opposition candidate in a peaceful election.
Buhari’s victory was driven by widespread dissatisfaction with corruption, insecurity, and economic challenges under the previous administration. His promise of ‘Change’ resonated with many Nigerians, particularly the youth, who saw in him a leader who could address the nation’s pressing issues with discipline and transparency.
Achievements and Reforms
During his presidency from 2015 to 2023, Buhari implemented several reforms aimed at combating corruption, improving security, and revitalizing the Nigerian economy. His administration launched initiatives like the Treasury Single Account (TSA) to enhance transparency in government transactions and reduce leakages.
Under his leadership, efforts were made to tackle the Boko Haram insurgency in the Northeast, with the military reclaiming territories previously under the control of insurgents. Buhari also signed the Petroleum Industry Bill into law, aiming to reform the oil and gas sector. Infrastructure projects, including road and rail development, were key components of his administration’s agenda.
Criticisms and Challenges
Despite his achievements, Buhari’s presidency faced significant criticisms, including issues of rising insecurity in other parts of the country, economic hardship due to inflation and unemployment, and perceptions of human rights abuses during security crackdowns. His government was also criticized for perceived nepotism and the slow response to economic diversification.
The #EndSARS protests in 2020 against police brutality challenged Buhari’s administration, with protesters demanding systemic reforms and accountability. His health challenges, which led to prolonged medical trips abroad, also raised concerns about leadership stability during his presidency.
Death and Enduring Legacy
On July 13, 2025, Muhammadu Buhari passed away in London, marking the end of a significant chapter in Nigeria’s history. His death triggered a wave of reflections on his life, governance, and the imprint he left on the nation.
Buhari’s legacy is complex; he is celebrated by many as a leader who sought to address corruption and instill discipline in governance while being criticized by others for heavy-handedness and economic policies that did not fully address poverty and unemployment.
Regardless of the perspectives, Muhammadu Buhari’s role in shaping Nigeria’s political and governance landscape will continue to be studied for generations to come.
