Nigeria debates Buhari's legacy

In early July 2026, the first anniversary of former President Muhammadu Buhari’s death sparked renewed reflection on his legacy. Former Secretary to the Government of the Federation Boss Mustapha recalled personal mentorship, while former media adviser Femi Adesina used the occasion to condemn current socio‑economic woes. Two weeks later, former political adviser Akin Osuntokun highlighted Buhari’s northern popularity but criticised the administration’s failure to raise living standards and its role in communal conflicts; Senator Ibikunle Amosun praised Buhari’s discipline and integrity.

On 13 July, President Bola Tinubu, speaking through Vice‑President Kashim Shettima, led a prayer session and lauded Buhari’s transformation from military ruler to elected president, urging officials to emulate his honesty and self‑discipline. The ceremony featured additional voices: former Minister of Information Lai Mohammed praised Buhari’s “unwavering patriotism” and his 2015 media tour of liberated Borno; ex‑Chief of Army Staff Lt Gen Tukur Buratai credited Buhari’s decisive support for the army’s fight against Boko Haram; Aviation Minister Hadi Sirika defended the economic record, while political analyst Akin Osuntokun reiterated that Buhari remained a “hero of the North” despite limited improvements for ordinary Nigerians. The expanding discourse continues to oscillate between reverent tribute and critical appraisal, underscoring how Buhari’s anti‑corruption image and regional appeal shape contemporary debates about Nigeria’s challenges.