In this post, I will be running a breif biography of president Muhammadu Buhari, his early life, careers and death.
President Muhammadu Buhari (1942–2025) was one of Nigeria’s most iconic and influential leaders. From his modest beginnings in Daura to leading Africa’s most populous country as both a military head of state and democratically elected president, Buhari’s journey was marked by integrity, discipline, and unwavering service to the nation.
Table of Contents
Biography of President Muhammadu Buhari, Early Life and Education
Born on December 17, 1942, in Daura, Katsina State, Buhari was the 23rd child of his father, Adamu Bafallaje, a Fulani leader. His father passed away when Buhari was just four years old, and he was raised by his mother, Zulaihat.
He attended Katsina Provincial Secondary School, where he earned his West African School Certificate in 1961. Even in his youth, Buhari was known for discipline and leadership, traits that shaped his military and political legacy.
Military Career of Muhammadu Buhari
Biography of President Muhammadu.Buhari, cannot be complere without talking aboiut his military career. In 1962, Buhari joined the Nigerian Military Training College (NMTC), which later became the Nigerian Defence Academy. He underwent advanced military training in the United Kingdom, India, and the United States.
Some notable highlights of his military career include:
- Commander during the Nigerian Civil War (1967–1970)
- Military Governor of the North-Eastern State (1975–1976)
- Federal Commissioner for Petroleum and Natural Resources (1976–1978)
- Chairman of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC)
On December 31, 1983, Buhari emerged as Nigeria’s military head of state after a coup that ousted President Shehu Shagari. His government launched the War Against Indiscipline (WAI) and cracked down on corruption, smuggling, and economic mismanagement.
Despite these efforts, his regime was criticized for its authoritarian style and was overthrown on August 27, 1985, by General Ibrahim Babangida.
After years away from public office, Buhari re-entered politics in Nigeria’s Fourth Republic. He contested in the 2003, 2007, and 2011 presidential elections, all of which he lost. However, he remained a symbol of integrity and resilience.
In 2015, Buhari ran again under the All Progressives Congress (APC) and made history by defeating incumbent President Goodluck Jonathan, marking Nigeria’s first peaceful transition of power from one party to another.
Presidency (2015–2023): Achievements and Challenges
The biography of president Muhammadu Buhari cannot be complete without his dramatic sail to power an Nigeria’s number one citizen. He was elected into the seat of president where he served two terms from May 29, 2015, to May 29, 2023.
Key Achievements:
- Anti-Corruption Drive
His administration pursued high-profile corruption cases through agencies like EFCC and ICPC, though some critics alleged selective enforcement. - Infrastructure Development
Major projects included the Second Niger Bridge, Lagos-Ibadan Rail, and reconstruction of key highways nationwide. - Security Operations
Buhari’s government tackled Boko Haram and banditry. Though progress was made, insecurity remained a persistent issue. - Social Investment Programs
He launched initiatives like N-Power, TraderMoni, and the Anchor Borrowers’ Programme to fight poverty and empower youth and farmers. - Foreign Diplomacy
Buhari repositioned Nigeria as a regional leader through active participation in ECOWAS, the African Union, and global climate talks.
Criticisms:
- Economic challenges including recession, unemployment, and inflation
- Allegations of human rights abuses and press suppression
- Fuel scarcity, insecurity, and foreign exchange instability
- There was also accusations of some widespread corruption
Personal Life and Character
Another notable facts in the biography of president Muhammadu Buhari is his modesty, religious devotion, and discipline. He was married to Safinatu Yusuf (1971–1988), with whom he had five children. After their separation, he married Aisha Buhari in 1989, and they had five more children.
A devout Muslim, Buhari performed Hajj several times. Even while in power, he was known for leading a simple, frugal lifestyle and avoiding flamboyance.
The biography of president Muhammadu Buhari is an inspring journey of resilience, dedication and life of services
After completing his second term in May 2023, Buhari retired to his hometown of Daura. He kept a low profile and occasionally commented on national issues.
Death of President Muhammadu Buhari
On July 14, 2025, President Muhammadu Buhari passed away peacefully at the age of 82 after a brief illness. His death was officially announced by the Presidency and confirmed by the Nigerian Armed Forces, sparking nationwide mourning.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who succeeded him, declared a 7-day national mourning period and ordered all flags flown at half-mast in his honor after his remains was accompanied to his country home by the Vice predent and other notable dignitories.
Sources: Wikipedia
Author: Saltcity News Editorial Desk
Date: July 15, 2025
Join us @SaltcityNews on Facebook
Who is Paul Feng? The Inspiring Journey of an Ebonyi Born Tech Entrepreneur
About the Author
