Buhari Was Aware Nigerians Were Disappointed With His Leadership, Daughter Reveals

She made the revelation on Wednesday in Abuja during the public presentation of a book titled Headlines and Soundbites: Media Moments That Defined an Administration, authored by former Minister of Information and Culture, Lai Mohammed. The event, held at the Yar’Adua Centre, attracted former ministers, past and serving governors, traditional rulers, and prominent political figures from major political parties.

Speaking at the gathering, Halima Buhari said her father clearly understood that the high expectations Nigerians placed on him were not entirely met, particularly in the areas of security and economic management. She described governance in Nigeria as far more complex than it often appeared to the public, noting that leadership required difficult decisions made under constant pressure.

Drawing from her close observation of power, she explained that the former president was deeply affected by the human consequences of governance and was never detached from the realities facing ordinary citizens. She noted that behind public statements and official appearances was a man who listened intently, worried about the safety of Nigerians, and struggled with the gap between campaign promises and practical limitations.

Halima said that while Nigerians knew him as President Muhammadu Buhari, at home he was simply “Baba,” adding that leadership often demanded compromises that were invisible to the public. She stressed that contrary to popular belief, her father was not shielded from criticism and paid close attention to both public anger and appreciation.

According to her, the former president was aware that many Nigerians believed more could have been achieved or handled differently, just as he also acknowledged those who felt their lives had improved during his tenure.

She emphasized that the occasion was not intended to impose a single judgment on Buhari’s years in office, noting that his legacy would continue to be debated in a healthy democracy. She added that Lai Mohammed’s book offers an insider perspective on governance and public communication, reflecting the challenges of managing an administration under intense public scrutiny.

Halima concluded that the publication represents one of many perspectives that will shape ongoing discussions about the Buhari administration, as Nigerians continue to assess its impact and place in history.