1. Humble beginnings in Daura
Muhammadu Buhari was born on December 17, 1942, in Daura, Katsina State. He lost his father at the age of three and was raised by his older siblings. His early education was supported by local traditional institutions.
2. Extensive military education and service
Buhari received military training in Nigeria, the United Kingdom, India, and the United States. He served in a United Nations peacekeeping mission in Congo and participated in the Nigerian Civil War.
3. Rapid rise in military governance
In his mid-30s, Buhari became military governor of the North-Eastern State, federal commissioner for petroleum resources, and later chairman of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC).
4. Seized power in 1983
On December 31, 1983, Buhari led a military coup that ousted the civilian government. His regime focused on discipline and anti-corruption, launching the “War Against Indiscipline.” He was removed from office in another coup in August 1985.
5. Decades of political struggle
After his release from detention, Buhari entered politics. He contested for president in 2003, 2007 and 2011 before eventually co-founding the All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2013.
6. Historic democratic victory in 2015
Buhari made history in 2015 by becoming the first opposition candidate in Nigeria to defeat a sitting president. He was re-elected in 2019, becoming the only non-PDP leader to complete two terms in office.
7. Anti-corruption crusade
His administration launched a massive anti-corruption drive, leading to the conviction of hundreds of individuals including judges and military officers. The government also recovered hundreds of millions of dollars in looted funds.
8. Battles with extremism and economic challenges
Buhari’s government made progress in the fight against Boko Haram and secured the release of some kidnapped schoolgirls. However, the country grappled with widespread insecurity, two economic recessions, inflation and currency devaluation.
9. Criticisms and controversies
While praised for discipline and integrity, Buhari was also criticised for authoritarian tendencies, clampdowns on dissent, media restrictions and handling of the #EndSARS protests. His administration was also accused of being slow in decision-making, earning him the nickname “Baba Go Slow.”
10. Death in London and burial plans
Buhari died in London on July 13, 2025, at the age of 82 after a prolonged illness. Vice President Kashim Shettima has been assigned to oversee the return of his remains. He is expected to be buried in his hometown, Daura.
