Abuja, Nigeria– As Nigeria bids farewell to one of its most enduring leaders, the legacy of former President Muhammadu Buhari remains etched in the nation’s history.
Often referred to as “The People’s General,” Buhari rose to civilian leadership in 2015 on a platform built around three core promises: combating corruption, restoring security, and reviving the economy.
A Mandate for Change
President Buhari’s election victory in 2015 marked a turning point in Nigerian politics. Against the backdrop of widespread insecurity and economic challenges, his ascension brought renewed hope to millions. Under his leadership, Nigeria witnessed significant gains in the fight against insurgency, particularly in the northeast. Several key Boko Haram leaders were neutralized, and the Nigerian military was reequipped and restructured to enhance operational readiness.
“Many bomb-making experts were eliminated, and critical support networks were dismantled,” said Professor Huud, a university lecturer. “The administration also inherited a strained economy, with salaries being paid through borrowings under the previous government.”
Fighting Corruption and Restoring Confidence
President Buhari’s anti-corruption campaign became a hallmark of his administration. Strengthening institutions such as the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC), his government recovered stolen assets both domestically and abroad—from countries including the United States, Switzerland, and the United Arab Emirates.
These actions not only improved public confidence in governance but also enhanced Nigeria’s global image, attracting foreign investment and restoring the nation’s reputation as a serious player on the international stage.
Revamping Agriculture and Empowering Farmers
In a bid to achieve food security and diversify the economy, the Buhari administration invested heavily in agriculture. The Anchor Borrowers’ Programme, funded by the Central Bank of Nigeria, provided over ₦3 billion in loans, benefiting more than three million smallholder farmers. Complementary initiatives such as the Presidential Fertilizer Initiative and agro-processing zones further boosted productivity and rural development.
“I had never received government fertilizer before Buhari,” said Mr. Gukas Panan, a farmer. “During his tenure, I did—and it made a real difference in my harvest.”
Infrastructure and Social Investment
The administration’s focus on infrastructure development was evident in landmark projects like the Second Niger Bridge and the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway. These developments spurred socio-economic growth and improved nationwide connectivity.
Equally impactful was the Social Investment Programme, which included the N-Power youth employment scheme, a school feeding initiative that increased school enrollment, and the Survival Fund that supported over 800,000 small businesses. APC chieftain Comrade Okpoku Ogenyi lauded these efforts as “transformative,” saying they improved the lives of ordinary Nigerians.
Education, Energy, and Political Inclusion
Education also received significant attention, with over ₦2 trillion invested in capital projects through the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFUND). More than 30 new higher institutions, including the Army University in Biu and the Federal University of Transportation in Daura, were established.
In the power sector, Buhari’s government pushed for a 4,000-megawatt boost through the rehabilitation of major power plants and the launch of a national metering initiative to expand electricity access.
A major democratic milestone was the signing of the Not Too Young To Run bill into law, empowering young Nigerians to contest for public office and deepening political participation.
Energy Reforms and Economic Strategy
Given Nigeria’s dependency on oil, Buhari prioritized reforms in the petroleum sector. The signing of the Petroleum Industry Bill marked a bold step toward transparency and efficiency, culminating in the commissioning of the Dangote Refinery—widely seen as a transformative moment for the country’s energy sector.
Though not all campaign promises were fully realized, President Buhari’s unwavering integrity, patriotism, and disciplined approach to governance earned him broad admiration. “He was sincere and incorruptible,” said a citizen in an interview with Radio Nigeria. “Such leadership is rare.”
A Lasting Legacy
From his early military rule (1983–1985) to his return as a democratically elected president (2015–2023), Muhammadu Buhari served with a focus on discipline, national unity, and institutional reform. His War Against Indiscipline campaign remains a historic reference point for civic responsibility.
At the time of his passing, Buhari held the distinction of being Nigeria’s second-longest-serving president, after Olusegun Obasanjo. His legacy continues to resonate with millions who were impacted by his policies and personal example.
Though gone, the memory of President Buhari endures—as a leader who governed with sincerity, fought corruption with resolve, and placed Nigeria’s progress at the center of his mission.
By Taiwo Olatinwo/ July 16,2025
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