Muhammadu Buhari: Nigeria's ex-leader buried in his hometown -

Muhammadu Buhari, Nigeria’s former president and military ruler, was recently laid to rest in his hometown of Daura, located in the northern region of Nigeria. His passing has reignited discussions about his complex legacy—one that bridges Nigeria’s military past and its democratic aspirations. From his early days as a military ruler to his two-term presidency in a democratic Nigeria, Buhari’s legacy in Nigeria is marked by both progress and controversy. This article offers an extensive analysis of his political journey, his leadership style, his impact on Nigeria’s economy, and his influence on national security and foreign policy.

1. Muhammadu Buhari’s Early Military Career and Rise to Power

Muhammadu Buhari began his career as a young soldier in the Nigerian Army, rising through the ranks during a time of political instability. He gained national attention during the 1970s when he held significant positions such as Military Governor of the North-Eastern State and later as the Federal Commissioner for Petroleum and Natural Resources. His reputation for discipline and incorruptibility earned him respect within the military and political circles.

In December 1983, following allegations of widespread corruption and inefficiency in the civilian government, Buhari led a successful coup d’état that overthrew President Shehu Shagari. As a military ruler from 1983 to 1985, Buhari introduced stringent anti-corruption policies, launched the controversial “War Against Indiscipline” (WAI), and implemented measures to restore fiscal responsibility. However, his authoritarian methods, including the detention of journalists and political opponents, drew criticism from human rights groups.

2. Transition from Military Leader to Democratic President

After being ousted in 1985, Muhammadu Buhari receded from the public eye for a period. However, his political resurgence began in the early 2000s when he joined Nigeria’s democratic landscape. He ran for president multiple times before securing victory in 2015 as the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC). His election marked the first time in Nigeria’s history that an incumbent president was defeated at the ballot box—a milestone for Nigerian democracy.

As a democratically elected president, Buhari’s leadership style remained austere. He emphasized anti-corruption, national security, and economic diversification. His administration prioritized the fight against Boko Haram, investing in military hardware and regional cooperation. On the economic front, Buhari aimed to reduce Nigeria’s dependency on oil by promoting agriculture and local industries.

3. Muhammadu Buhari and Nigeria’s Fight Against Corruption

Anti-corruption in Nigeria was a central theme of Buhari’s presidency. From the start of his administration, he vowed to root out systemic corruption. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) under his leadership pursued high-profile cases involving politicians, businessmen, and public officials. Although some applauded these efforts, others criticized them for being selectively enforced and politically motivated.

International observers and Nigerian civil society groups acknowledged improvements in public sector transparency, especially in procurement and government spending. However, the perception of corruption remained high, and many Nigerians were disillusioned by what they saw as insufficient institutional reforms to tackle the root causes of corruption.

4. Nigeria’s Economic Challenges and Buhari’s Response

The Nigerian economy under Muhammadu Buhari faced multiple challenges, including falling global oil prices, inflation, and recession. In response, Buhari’s administration adopted several strategies to stabilize the economy. These included the Economic Recovery and Growth Plan (ERGP), currency management policies, and restrictions on foreign exchange for imports to promote local production.

While these policies helped reduce Nigeria’s reliance on imports and encouraged agricultural self-sufficiency, critics argued they hampered growth in the short term and discouraged foreign investment. Unemployment and poverty remained persistent issues throughout his presidency. Nevertheless, some sectors—like agriculture and fintech—witnessed remarkable expansion due to supportive government programs and private sector innovation.

5. National Security and Buhari’s Military Background

With a strong military background, Muhammadu Buhari made national security a top priority. His administration made significant gains in weakening Boko Haram’s grip in the northeast. The Nigerian Army recaptured territories previously under terrorist control, and the Multinational Joint Task Force coordinated operations across Nigeria, Chad, Niger, and Cameroon.

However, insecurity evolved beyond terrorism. Nigeria faced rising banditry in the northwest, farmer-herder conflicts in the middle belt, and separatist agitations in the southeast. Buhari’s approach—often military-heavy—was criticized for lacking socio-political strategies to address root causes. Despite massive investments in defense, many Nigerians felt less secure at the end of his term than at the beginning.

6. Muhammadu Buhari’s Foreign Policy and International Relations

Muhammadu Buhari’s foreign policy focused on regional security cooperation, economic diplomacy, and Nigeria’s re-engagement with global institutions. His frequent participation in African Union summits, ECOWAS negotiations, and bilateral talks reinforced Nigeria’s leadership in West Africa. He played a key role in mediating conflicts in Mali, Guinea-Bissau, and The Gambia.

On the global stage, Buhari prioritized building strategic partnerships with China, the United States, and European countries. Nigeria joined international efforts on climate change and signed the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) agreement under his leadership. However, his conservative economic stance sometimes conflicted with broader liberalization agendas.

7. Legacy of Muhammadu Buhari: A Nation Divided on His Impact

The legacy of Muhammadu Buhari remains a subject of intense debate. Supporters regard him as a principled leader who brought discipline and structure to Nigeria’s chaotic political scene. They highlight his achievements in security reform, infrastructure development, and regional diplomacy. His burial in Daura, his ancestral home, was marked by tributes from dignitaries and citizens who saw him as a patriot.

However, critics argue that Buhari’s tenure was marred by economic stagnation, human rights violations, and inadequate governance. His perceived detachment, especially during national crises such as the #EndSARS protests, fueled frustration among youth. His administration’s failure to deliver on promises of prosperity and unity left a mixed legacy that future Nigerian leaders must navigate.

The Economic Impact of Muhammadu Buhari’s Leadership on Nigeria

Muhammadu Buhari’s presidency left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s economic landscape. As both a former military ruler and a democratically elected leader, his policies were often seen as a blend of strong-handed governance and market-driven reform. From the onset of his civilian presidency in 2015, Muhammadu Buhari prioritized anti-corruption efforts and economic recovery, particularly after the collapse of global oil prices, which hit Nigeria—a country heavily dependent on petroleum revenues—particularly hard.

Buhari introduced the Economic Recovery and Growth Plan (ERGP) in 2017, aiming to stabilize the macroeconomic environment, reduce inflation, and foster non-oil sector growth. While critics argue that the results were mixed, there was a measurable expansion in sectors such as agriculture and digital services. Muhammadu Buhari’s emphasis on domestic production, especially through the Central Bank’s intervention policies like the Anchor Borrowers’ Program, aimed to boost local farming and reduce Nigeria’s reliance on food imports.

However, Buhari’s foreign exchange policies and stringent import restrictions were met with criticism. While they protected local industries to an extent, they also caused supply shortages and drove up inflation, disproportionately affecting the lower-income population. Unemployment remained a major challenge throughout his tenure, and although the administration recorded some success in rebuilding critical infrastructure—such as railways and roads—the wider economy struggled to keep up with the needs of a rapidly growing population.

In retrospect, Muhammadu Buhari’s economic vision was rooted in nationalist protectionism and social intervention. While his administration made strides in certain areas, the impact of global economic trends, internal conflict, and governance issues often diluted these efforts. Nevertheless, for many Nigerians, Muhammadu Buhari’s economic legacy represents a significant chapter in the nation’s struggle for fiscal independence and inclusive growth.

International Perception and Diplomatic Legacy of Muhammadu Buhari

On the international stage, Muhammadu Buhari was regarded as a serious, no-nonsense leader committed to regional stability and anti-corruption. His presence reinvigorated Nigeria’s diplomatic ties, especially within Africa and with major powers like the United States, China, and the European Union. Muhammadu Buhari’s attendance at major global forums, including the United Nations General Assembly and the African Union summits, often underscored Nigeria’s strategic importance and his government’s interest in global security cooperation.

Buhari strengthened Nigeria’s military collaborations, particularly in the fight against Boko Haram and ISWAP insurgents in the northeast. Under his leadership, Nigeria took a front-line role in the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF), coordinating efforts with neighboring Chad, Cameroon, and Niger. This regional initiative helped reduce the territorial control of terrorist groups, even though the human and economic cost of the conflict remained high.

Muhammadu Buhari also sought to reposition Nigeria as an investment destination. His participation in economic summits and business forums was part of a larger effort to attract foreign direct investment and develop infrastructure partnerships, especially with China under the Belt and Road Initiative. However, issues of human rights, media freedom, and security operations during his tenure drew criticism from global watchdogs and foreign governments.

Despite this, Muhammadu Buhari’s commitment to democratic norms—such as conducting relatively free elections and transferring power peacefully—earned him international praise. His role in mediating regional disputes and supporting ECOWAS initiatives further solidified his stature as a statesman in West Africa. As Nigeria navigates its post-Buhari era, his diplomatic legacy will continue to influence the country’s foreign policy direction for years to come.

8. Final Reflections: The Significance of Buhari’s Burial in Daura

The burial of Muhammadu Buhari in Daura symbolizes more than the end of an era; it encapsulates Nigeria’s journey through military rule, democratic transition, and the struggle for nation-building. His hometown, Daura, has become a focal point for those reflecting on the cost of leadership and the promise of governance in Nigeria.

As Nigerians continue to debate his legacy, one fact remains clear: Buhari’s influence on Nigerian politics and history is indelible. His story serves as a reminder of the enduring complexities of leadership in a diverse and dynamic country like Nigeria.