Muhammadu Buhari

**Muhammadu Buhari: Biography** **Early Life and Education** Muhammadu Buhari was born on December 17, 1942, in Daura, present-day Katsina State, Nigeria, to a Fulani family. His father, Mallam Hardo Adamu, was a Fulani chief. Buhari received his early education in Katsina. His military journey began in 1962 when he enrolled in the Nigerian Military Training College (NMTC) in Kaduna. He subsequently attended the Mons Officer Cadet School in Aldershot, England (1962–1963). Throughout his career, he pursued specialized military education, including attendance at the United States Army War College, Carlisle, Pennsylvania, from 1979 to 1980, where he earned a Master's Degree in Strategic Studies. **Military Career and Career Progression** Buhari's career progression in the Nigerian Army was marked by significant command and administrative roles. He served as General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 3rd Armoured Division. A pivotal moment came when he was appointed Federal Commissioner for Petroleum and Natural Resources (1976–1978) during General Olusegun Obasanjo's military regime. Following this, he served as the Chairman of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) (1978–1979). **Head of State (1983–1985)** On December 31, 1983, Buhari, a Major General at the time, led a military coup that overthrew the democratically elected government of President Shehu Shagari. He became Nigeria's Head of State. His regime focused on combating corruption, indiscipline, and economic decline. He implemented the "War Against Indiscipline" (WAI) campaign, aimed at instilling order and nationalistic values. However, his government was known for its authoritarian policies, including the use of military tribunals and decrees to curb dissent. His regime was ultimately overthrown in a palace coup led by General Ibrahim Babangida on August 27, 1985. **Democratic Political Career** After his release from detention and subsequent return to public life, Buhari transitioned to democratic politics. He contested the presidential election unsuccessfully in 2003, 2007, and 2011. He ran as a candidate for the All Nigeria People's Party (ANPP) and later the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC). **Major Achievements as President (2015–2023)** In 2014, Buhari became a key figure in the formation of the All Progressives Congress (APC). In the 2015 general election, he defeated incumbent President Goodluck Jonathan, marking the first time in Nigeria's history that a sitting president was defeated by an opposition candidate. He was re-elected in 2019. His presidency focused on three core promises: security, anti-corruption, and economic diversification. * **Anti-Corruption:** His administration continued the fight against corruption, leading to numerous high-profile arrests and asset recoveries. Key institutions like the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) were significantly leveraged. * **Infrastructure:** His government oversaw the completion and progression of major infrastructure projects, including key road networks, the Second Niger Bridge, and significant expansion of the rail network across the country. * **Security:** His government made efforts to counter the Boko Haram insurgency in the Northeast, though it simultaneously faced new security challenges, including banditry and farmer-herder conflicts in various regions.**Notable Works and Current Status** While his primary legacy is political and military, his notable works include the policies and institutions established during his two terms as Head of State and as President. Muhammadu Buhari completed his second democratic term as President of Nigeria on May 29, 2023, and officially handed over power to his successor, Bola Ahmed Tinubu. He is currently a respected elder statesman, enjoying retirement in his hometown of Daura, Katsina State, remaining a prominent figure in Nigerian political discourse.