Muhammadu Buhari’s presidency, spanning from 2015 to 2023, was a period marked by a distinct focus on anti-corruption efforts and national security challenges. His leadership, deeply rooted in his military background and earlier stint as military ruler in 1983, resonated through a specific rhetoric – blunt, commanding, and unwavering. Buhari’s “change mantra” became the cornerstone of his administration, promising a departure from past practices and a renewed commitment to discipline and accountability. This mantra, coupled with his uncompromising communication style, attracted both fervent supporters and staunch critics, solidifying his image as a leader determined to instill order in a nation grappling with various complexities.
Buhari’s public pronouncements, ranging from inaugural addresses to Independence Day speeches, served as a powerful reflection of his governing philosophy. His words, often delivered with a characteristic frankness, conveyed his vision for Nigeria and underscored the key themes of his presidency: combating corruption, promoting unity, calling for national sacrifice, and forging a stronger national identity. These pronouncements transcended mere political rhetoric and became emblematic of his administration’s drive toward a transformed Nigeria. They captured the mind of a leader who considered himself a guardian of stability amidst turbulent times, a role he embraced and consistently reiterated throughout his two terms.
A recurring theme in Buhari’s speeches was his acknowledgment of the hardships faced by ordinary Nigerians. He often expressed empathy for the struggles of those whose salaries fell short of meeting their basic needs and recognized the sacrifices made by citizens across the nation. This acknowledgment of the economic realities on the ground provided a human touch to his leadership, seemingly bridging the gap between the presidency and the populace. Furthermore, his open admission of potentially causing harm to some individuals and his subsequent plea for forgiveness revealed a degree of humility, even amidst a strong and sometimes controversial leadership style.
Upon assuming office in 2015, Buhari emphasized the importance of unity and moving beyond past grievances. He commended his predecessor, Goodluck Jonathan, for facilitating a smooth transition of power, showcasing Nigeria’s ability to conduct a peaceful democratic process despite perceived tensions. His declaration of belonging “to everybody and to nobody” aimed to reassure citizens that his administration would not be driven by personal vendettas or a desire to settle old scores. This commitment to looking forward rather than dwelling on the past formed a crucial element of his message of national reconciliation and progress.
Throughout his presidency, Buhari repeatedly stressed the need for collective responsibility in achieving national transformation. He called upon citizens to change their attitudes and behaviors, emphasizing that true change required a shift in mindset and a commitment to law-abiding conduct. He urged Nigerians to move beyond regional identities and embrace a shared national identity, recognizing the detrimental impact of prioritizing regional affiliations over national unity. This call for a collective effort towards change underscored his belief that national transformation could not be achieved solely through government action but required the active participation of all citizens.
Buhari’s focus on the economy consistently highlighted the need for diversification and the restructuring of the oil and gas sector, which he viewed as riddled with corruption and inefficiency. He acknowledged the challenges posed by declining oil prices and the country’s overreliance on imports, stressing the importance of strengthening domestic production and reducing dependence on foreign goods. This emphasis on economic reform and tackling corruption within key sectors formed a central pillar of his “change agenda,” reflecting his commitment to building a more resilient and sustainable economy for Nigeria. His later reflection on his age and the limitations it imposed on his ability to govern hinted at the demanding nature of leading a nation as complex as Nigeria.
