He knew many Nigerians were disappointed with his administration – Halima Buhari Reflects on Her Late Father’s Awareness of Criticism

Halima Buhari, daughter of former President Muhammadu Buhari, has opened up about her father’s private struggles and awareness of public criticism during his time in office. She shared these reflections on Wednesday, December 17, at the presentation of a book by former Minister of Information, Alhaji Lai Mohammed.

Addressing former ministers, ex-governors, traditional rulers, and political figures, Halima revealed that her father understood the disappointment many Nigerians felt regarding issues like insecurity and the economy. She noted that while the public saw “President Buhari,” his family knew him as “Baba”—a man quietly listening, deeply concerned, and painfully aware that his decisions affected millions.

“Behind every soundbite, there was a human being; sometimes tired, sometimes determined, sometimes frustrated, always painfully aware that his decisions impacted millions of lives,” she said. Halima described him as thoughtful and introspective, weighing trade-offs and compromises in the complex task of leading Nigeria.

She emphasized that Buhari was conscious of criticism, hearing both the voices of disappointed Nigerians and the gratitude of those who felt their lives improved under his administration. Halima added that the book presented offers one perspective from someone in the inner circle of communication and messaging, highlighting the realities and challenges of governing a complex nation.

Halima concluded by noting that Nigerians will continue to debate her father’s legacy, with multiple books likely praising, criticizing, or documenting his years in office.