The passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari marks the end of a significant chapter in Nigeria’s history. A man of paradoxes—stern yet admired, controversial yet respected—Buhari’s journey from a young military officer to a two-time national leader embodies the complexities of Nigeria’s political landscape. As the nation mourns, it is also a moment to reflect on the life, leadership, and legacy of a man who dominated public discourse for decades.
Whether celebrated for his anti-corruption stance or criticised for his strict methods, Buhari’s impact remains deeply woven into the fabric of Nigeria’s story. Here are 15 interesting facts about the late statesman that highlight his journey, principles, and the key moments that defined his place in history.
1. Born in 1942
Muhammadu Buhari was born on December 17, 1942, in Daura, Katsina State, in northern Nigeria.
2. Military Background
He joined the Nigerian Army at age 19 in 1961 and quickly rose through the ranks, eventually becoming a Major General.
3. Former Military Head of State
Buhari ruled Nigeria as a military Head of State from December 31, 1983, to August 27, 1985, after a coup that overthrew President Shehu Shagari.
4. Overthrown by a Fellow Military Officer
His military government was overthrown in 1985 by General Ibrahim Babangida, making him one of the few Nigerian leaders ousted by a fellow soldier.
5. Detained for Over 3 Years
After being overthrown, Buhari was placed under house arrest for over three years, a period he later described as unjust and difficult.
6. Democratically Elected President
Buhari became Nigeria’s president in 2015, 30 years after his military rule—making him the first opposition candidate to defeat an incumbent president in Nigeria’s history.
7. Persistent Presidential Candidate
Before winning in 2015, Buhari ran unsuccessfully for president three times—in 2003, 2007, and 2011—becoming a symbol of perseverance in Nigerian politics.
8. Known for Spartan Lifestyle
He was famously austere and disciplined, with a reputation for personal integrity and a simple lifestyle, even while in office.
9. “War Against Indiscipline” (WAI)
His military regime launched the War Against Indiscipline, a strict program aimed at instilling order, hygiene, punctuality, and patriotism—often enforced with military-style punishment.
10. Anti-Corruption Crusader
Both in the military and civilian eras, Buhari made anti-corruption a cornerstone of his governance, though critics often argued the fight was selective.
11. Survived an Assassination Attempt
In July 2014, before his election victory, Buhari survived a bomb attack on his convoy in Kaduna, attributed to extremist groups.
12. Battled Health Issues
His second term in office was marked by long medical trips to London, raising national concern and sparking debates about transparency in governance.
13. Introduced Social Investment Programs
His administration created initiatives like N-Power, TraderMoni, and School Feeding Programs, targeting youth empowerment and poverty alleviation.
14. Father of Many Children
Buhari is a father to 10 children (including Zahra, Yusuf, and Halima) and a grandfather. His wife, Aisha Buhari, was active as Nigeria’s First Lady, especially on women and children’s issues.
15. Never Touched Alcohol or Tobacco
Known for his religious devotion, Buhari was a teetotaler—he never smoked or drank alcohol throughout his life, in line with his devout Muslim beliefs.
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