Halima Buhari, daughter of late former President Muhammadu Buhari, has shared insights into the private challenges her father faced while leading Nigeria, acknowledging that he was fully aware of the disappointment felt by many citizens during his tenure.

Speaking at the public launch of the book “Headlines and Soundbites: Media Moments That Defined an Administration” by former Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, Halima said Buhari understood that public expectations often exceeded what could realistically be delivered, particularly in the areas of insecurity and economic management.

“Behind every soundbite, there was a human being—sometimes tired, sometimes determined, sometimes frustrated, always painfully aware that his decisions impacted millions of lives,” Halima said. She stressed that while Nigerians knew him as President, within the family he was simply “Baba,” highlighting the human side of leadership often unseen by the public.

Halima noted that her father listened attentively to both criticism and praise, understanding that many citizens felt more could have been done, while also recognizing the gratitude of those whose lives had improved under his administration.

She further emphasised that the book offered an insider perspective on governance and public communication, providing one lens through which to understand an administration’s decisions without rewriting history or limiting debate.

“Leadership in a complex country like Nigeria involves trade-offs, compromises, and imperfect choices,” she said. “Nigerians will continue to debate his legacy, as they should in a vibrant democracy.”