Buhari emerged as a regional military commander shortly after finishing school. He rose to prominence after a coup led to the overthrow of the democratically elected President Shehu Shagari in 1983. Although Buhari claimed he was a figurehead in the coup, many accounts depict him as a pivotal player in the takeover. His regime, however, was short-lived, characterized by strict anti-corruption measures but marred by human rights violations. Eventually ousted in a coup himself, he spent three years in detention before re-entering politics in 2003.

After multiple unsuccessful attempts at the presidency, Buhari finally gained traction, especially among the youth, emphasizing his commitment to combating corruption and ensuring national security. His popularity surged in Northern Nigeria, where he was affectionately referred to as "Baba" Buhari during the 2015 elections.

Buhari's historic victory in 2015 marked him as the first opposition candidate to topple an incumbent, Goodluck Jonathan. The concession call between the two leaders became a symbol of Nigeria's democratic progress. Despite entering the presidency during challenging times, including economic recession and growing security issues, Buhari was re-elected in 2019 for a second term.

Buhari's global engagements included meetings with notable leaders such as Queen Elizabeth II, Barack Obama, and Donald Trump. His leadership style was met with mixed reactions; while some admired his commitment, others criticized him for failing to uphold campaign promises and suppressing dissent.

In a heartfelt tribute, Jonathan reflected on Buhari's dedication to serving the nation with integrity and patriotism. As Nigeria reflects on Buhari's legacy, the country grapples with the complexities of a leader who wore many hats in a system fraught with challenges.