A Legacy Remembered: Prof. Ibrahim Gambari Reflects on Muhammadu Buhari’s Life of Service to Nigeria
In the quiet corridors of power and the ever-vibrant world of public opinion, few Nigerian leaders have remained as enduringly relevant or as widely discussed as the late President Muhammadu Buhari. Known for his stoic demeanor, unyielding principles, and unwavering dedication to national service, Buhari’s legacy continues to evoke mixed emotions, strong reflections, and deep assessments across Nigeria’s political spectrum.
One of the most intimate and enduring voices reflecting on the life and service of the late Nigerian leader is Professor Ibrahim Gambari, a distinguished diplomat, academic, and former Chief of Staff to President Buhari. In a recent interview aired on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily, Gambari offered heartfelt insights and personal reflections on a man he had known for more than four decades. His words painted a portrait of a fulfilled leader who, despite challenges and controversies, remained committed to serving Nigeria with integrity and purpose.
A Man of Fulfillment in Service
“He was a fulfilled man,” Gambari began, his voice steady but tinged with emotion. “At the personal level, the professional level, and even politically—which wasn’t originally his domain—he achieved what few in this country ever have.” These words encapsulate the admiration and respect that Gambari, who served as Buhari’s Chief of Staff during the twilight years of his administration, still holds for the late president.
According to the seasoned diplomat, Buhari’s sense of fulfillment did not arise from accolades or popular acclaim. Instead, it was rooted in a deep sense of duty and the conviction that he had done all he could for Nigeria. “He was a good man,” Gambari reiterated, “and he did his best for the country.”
An Unmatched Dual Legacy: Military and Democratic Leadership
Muhammadu Buhari’s trajectory in Nigeria’s political and military history is nothing short of remarkable. Rising through the ranks of the Nigerian Army, he attained the status of a Major General. In 1983, amid growing disillusionment with the civilian administration of the time, Buhari emerged as Nigeria’s military Head of State following a coup. His short-lived regime was marked by a strict anti-corruption stance, spartan discipline, and a clear vision for national renewal.
Yet, what made Buhari truly unique in Nigeria’s political narrative was his reinvention as a civilian democrat. “Only two Nigerians have led the country both as military rulers and as democratically elected presidents,” Gambari observed. “He is part of that elite and rare group.”
After three unsuccessful attempts at the presidency, Buhari’s persistence bore fruit in 2015 when he defeated the incumbent in a fiercely contested election. He would go on to serve two terms, completing an eight-year tenure that reshaped the nation’s political landscape.
A Bond Forged in Trust and Shared Purpose
For Gambari, his relationship with Buhari was more than professional—it was built on mutual respect and longstanding loyalty. “I worked closely with him,” he said. “We stayed in touch over the years, and I eventually joined his government as Chief of Staff during his final three years in office. That gave me the privilege of seeing his commitment up close, every day.”
The role of Chief of Staff is one of immense responsibility and delicate diplomacy. It requires trust, discretion, and the ability to mediate between the President and the myriad forces—political, bureaucratic, and international—that seek to influence governance. Gambari, with his pedigree in diplomacy and governance, proved a fitting choice. His appointment reflected Buhari’s belief in merit and loyalty over politics and showmanship.
Navigating Legacy and Criticism
Gambari acknowledged that Buhari’s time in office, like any leadership role of such magnitude, attracted both praise and criticism. “There are always differing opinions,” he said thoughtfully. “People will judge whether he met expectations, whether he fulfilled his promises.”
Yet, from Gambari’s vantage point, Buhari’s legacy deserves a balanced and objective assessment. “On balance, he did very well for this country,” he asserted. “He truly loved Nigeria. His pride in being Nigerian was genuine, and he wanted the best for the nation.”
This statement echoes a sentiment many of Buhari’s supporters have shared—that while his administration may have faced tough challenges, the former President led with sincerity and a resolute sense of purpose.
Controversial Policies and Difficult Choices
One of the most debated aspects of Buhari’s administration, particularly in its final years, was his economic policy decisions. The redesign of the naira, for instance, sent ripples across the nation. Intended to combat corruption, inflation, and the excesses of cash-based transactions, the policy was controversial in both its timing and implementation.
“The economy was a subject of contention,” Gambari admitted. “The redesign policy, among others, was one of those moves that sparked public debate and discontent.”
Despite these tensions, Gambari suggested that Buhari’s economic decisions were made with good intentions, even if not always with widespread support. “These were tough calls,” he noted. “Leadership often requires making decisions that may not be popular in the short term but are aimed at long-term gains.”
The Man Behind the Office
Beyond his military stripes and presidential mandates, Gambari offered glimpses into the personal character of Buhari. A man of few words but profound convictions, Buhari was known to those close to him as reserved, principled, and deeply committed to his vision of a better Nigeria.
“He was not one for theatrics,” Gambari explained. “What you saw was what you got. He didn’t play to the gallery or seek unnecessary applause. He had an internal compass, a moral clarity that guided him, even when others disagreed.”
Such qualities, Gambari noted, can be both a strength and a weakness in politics. But in Buhari’s case, they underscored his authenticity—a rare commodity in a world often driven by populism and political expediency.
A President for the Times
While opinions remain divided on the totality of Buhari’s impact, few can dispute the fact that he led Nigeria through an era marked by significant internal and external pressures.
Yet through it all, his demeanor remained calm, calculated, and unwavering. “He wasn’t one to be easily rattled,” Gambari observed. “His ability to remain calm in the face of crisis was one of his defining qualities.”
That steadiness, though often misinterpreted as aloofness, enabled Buhari to maintain a sense of order and continuity at critical times. His administration made strides in infrastructure development, fought terrorism with increased coordination, and implemented policies aimed at curbing systemic corruption.
Reflections on a Life of National Duty
As Nigeria continues to come to terms with the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari, reflections from those who knew him—like Professor Ibrahim Gambari—offer valuable insight into a defining era of the country’s political journey.
Gambari’s words provide a sober reminder of what true service means. “A man’s legacy is not judged solely by the applause he receives but by the sacrifices he makes and the intentions that drive him,” he said. “Buhari may not have satisfied every citizen, but he served with all his heart.”
Buhari’s life was one of evolution and resilience. He rose through the military ranks with discipline and focus, eventually becoming Nigeria’s military Head of State in the 1980s. Years later, he reemerged as a civilian politician and defied the odds by becoming a two-term democratic president—a rare feat in Nigerian history.
His journey was not without controversy or criticism, yet it was marked by consistency in principles: anti-corruption, national unity, and public accountability. Buhari represented both the challenges and possibilities of Nigerian leadership, navigating decades of change while holding fast to his convictions.
Whether admired or critiqued, Buhari’s legacy is now woven into the fabric of Nigeria’s political story. His life stands as a testament to duty, sacrifice, and the enduring impact of leadership grounded in purpose.
A Nation Bids Farewell, A Legacy Lives On
As Nigeria reflects on the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari, his legacy remains a subject of national conversation. For some, he was a symbol of discipline and patriotism; for others, a leader whose policies sparked debate and division. Yet, what remains clear is that Buhari left an indelible mark on the nation’s history.
His leadership—both as a military head of state and a two-term civilian president—will continue to be analyzed by scholars, criticized by opponents, and admired by loyalists. Through economic challenges, security threats, and political transitions, Buhari’s tenure was marked by a firm commitment to national unity, anti-corruption, and public service.
Among those who knew him closely, Professor Ibrahim Gambari stands out. His heartfelt tribute offers a rare, intimate view of Buhari’s character—one grounded not in power, but in principle. According to Gambari, Buhari was not a man of theatrics but one driven by integrity, duty, and a deep love for Nigeria.
In an era where leadership often prioritizes image over impact, Buhari’s story stands as a reminder that the quiet force of integrity may be more powerful than loud applause. As Nigeria moves forward, the debates will continue, but so too will the influence of a man whose legacy—whether celebrated or contested—will not be forgotten.