Roving Reporters
Muhammadu Buhari’s presidency, which spanned from May 29, 2015, to May 29, 2023, marked a significant chapter in Nigeria’s democratic history. Elected on the platform of change, Buhari became the first opposition candidate to defeat an incumbent president, raising hopes for a new era of accountability, security, and economic revival.
His administration witnessed a wide array of defining events—both progressive and controversial—that shaped national discourse and impacted millions of Nigerians.
From major anti-corruption efforts and infrastructure expansion to economic challenges, social unrest, and key political transitions, Buhari’s years in office were marked by milestones that continue to influence the nation’s direction.
This report highlights some of the most unforgettable moments and developments that characterized his time as Commander-in-Chief.
1. The 2015 Historic Election Victory
Buhari defeated incumbent President Goodluck Jonathan — the first time a sitting Nigerian president lost an election.
A major democratic milestone in Nigeria’s history.
2. Economic Recession (2016 & 2020)
Nigeria slipped into recession twice under Buhari’s watch.
The first in 2016 due to falling oil prices and poor fiscal management.
The second in 2020 due to COVID-19 and crude oil crash.
3. #EndSARS Protest and Lekki Toll Gate Massacre (2020)
Youth-led nationwide protest against police brutality.
Alleged killing of peaceful protesters at Lekki Toll Gate sparked global outrage.
Federal Government denied fatalities despite strong evidence.
4. Rise in Insecurity: Banditry, Boko Haram & Kidnappings
Escalation in terror attacks, farmer-herder conflicts, banditry, and school kidnappings.
Dapchi schoolgirls (2018) and Kaduna train attack (2022) are symbolic examples.
Chibok girls still not all returned.
5. Buhari’s Frequent Medical Trips to London
Known for prolonged absences due to health issues.
Spent over 200 days abroad cumulatively for treatment during his 8-year term.
6. Closure of Nigerian Borders (2019–2020)
Meant to curb smuggling and boost local production.
Hurt regional trade and spiked inflation.
7. Twitter Ban in Nigeria (2021)
Buhari’s tweet deleted by Twitter; Nigerian government responded by banning Twitter for 7 months.
Accused of stifling freedom of speech.
8. Naira Scarcity and Cashless Policy Chaos (2022–2023)
Naira redesign policy by CBN triggered a nationwide cash crunch.
Nigerians queued for money, lost livelihoods, and protested en masse.
9. Corruption Allegations in “Anti-Corruption” Regime
Despite promising to fight corruption, high-level scandals emerged:
Maina pension scam scandal.
Magu (EFCC chair) investigated for corruption.
Billions missing in oil, subsidy, and defense budgets.
10. The Controversial Buhari-Aisha Divide
First Lady Aisha Buhari frequently criticized her husband’s administration.
Vanishing from public view and her remarks made headlines.
11. Rise in Cost of Living
Inflation, fuel price hikes, electricity tariff increases, and job losses.
Poverty and hunger worsened; youth migration surged.
12. Fuel Subsidy Dilemma
Buhari continued paying fuel subsidies despite initially opposing it.
Subsidy costs ballooned to unsustainable levels.
13. The 2023 Elections & Legacy Debate
Buhari handed over to Bola Ahmed Tinubu after a controversial election.
INEC faced severe criticism over logistics, transparency, and credibility.
