By Patrick Idowu
Halima Buhari, daughter of former President Muhammadu Buhari, has revealed the private struggles her father faced while in office, saying he was deeply aware of Nigerians’ disappointment with his administration.
Speaking at the public presentation of the book “Headlines and Soundbites: Media Moments That Defined an Administration” by former Minister of Information Lai Mohammed, Halima noted that her father understood that high public expectations were not fully met, especially on insecurity and economic issues.
“Behind every soundbite, there was a human being, sometimes tired, sometimes frustrated, always aware that his decisions affected millions,” she said. “For the public, he was President Buhari. For us at home, he was simply ‘Baba.’ Leadership is never as straightforward as it looks.”
Halima added that Buhari listened carefully to both criticism and praise, acknowledging the voices of Nigerians who felt more could have been done.
She stressed that the event was not meant to rewrite his legacy, noting that debates on his years in office would continue.
“Lai Mohammed’s book offers an insider’s perspective on governance and public communication, showing how an administration must navigate challenges and public opinion,” she said.
