“My Father Heard Nigeria’s Criticism and Disappointment” — Halima Buhari

Halima Buhari, daughter of former President Muhammadu Buhari, has offered a rare insight into her father’s private reflections, revealing that he was keenly aware of the widespread criticism and public disappointment toward his administration.

Speaking at the launch of a book by former Minister Lai Mohammed on Wednesday, Halima stated that the former President knew many Nigerians, who had placed high hopes in his ability to tackle insecurity and revive the economy, were let down by his performance.

She shared intimate memories of the man behind the office, describing him as someone who “would sit quietly, listening more than he spoke,” constantly worried about public safety and the gap between what was promised and what was achievable.

“For the public, he was President Buhari. For us at home, he was simply ‘Baba,’” she said, adding that leadership in a complex country like Nigeria involves difficult trade-offs and “imperfect choices.”

Halima emphasized that her father “was not unaware of the criticism” and that he heard the voices of the disappointed just as he heard those who were grateful. She concluded by stating that the purpose of her remarks was not to dictate his legacy but to contribute to Nigeria’s ongoing democratic debate about his years in office.