President Muhammadu Buhari’s ascent to power in 2015 was seen by many as a divine intervention to rescue Nigeria from the mismanagement of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the tumultuous political climate that had persisted since the restoration of democracy in 1999.
However, his presidency was not without its challenges, including political conspiracies, opposition from influential figures, and even foreign interests seeking to undermine his leadership.
Despite these obstacles, Buhari secured his re-election in 2019, leaving Nigerians divided on the extent to which he fulfilled his promises and accomplished his goals.
During his 2015 campaign, Buhari made numerous pledges that resonated with Nigerians, but as his tenure progressed, some critics felt that these promises were not fully realized.
Governor Samuel Ortom of Benue State is among those who expressed their dissatisfaction with the Buhari administration. Ortom criticized the outgoing president, stating that the country flourished under the previous administration of President Goodluck Jonathan, but the last eight years witnessed unimaginable poverty, insecurity, and general mismanagement.
Ortom stated, “Never in the history of Nigeria did we experience this kind of bad governance in the country.” His sentiments echo the frustrations felt by many Nigerians who expected better outcomes under Buhari’s leadership.
In response to criticisms, the Presidency recently released a 90-page fact sheet titled: “Buhari’s footprint on the sands of time,” highlighting the achievements of the Muhammadu Buhari-led government as it approaches its conclusion on May 29.
The fact sheet emphasizes the signing of 37 bills into law, the issuance of 12 executive orders, the initiation of numerous infrastructure projects, the forging of bilateral agreements, and the appointment or election of eminent Nigerians to global leadership positions.
Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity Femi Adesina, defended the administration’s accomplishments, stating, “As he had promised many times, he would not be leaving Nigeria the way he met it.”
“Those who are objective, taking a dispassionate look at this fact sheet, would admit that President Buhari came and served meritoriously”.
The fact sheet showcases notable achievements in infrastructure development, including the construction of over 961km of rail lines across the nation. It also highlights progress in power, roads, healthcare, housing, oil and gas, and the digital economy.
President Buhari himself asserts that he has steered the country towards success, stating, “I have run a good race, I have finished my course. It is now time for another to take up the baton.”
The assessment of Buhari’s performance extends beyond the government’s own fact sheet. The Forum of Political Parties (FPP) in Lagos State also evaluated the regime’s infrastructure development efforts.
Chairman of the FPP Kolawole Ajayi, acknowledged that while Nigerians had high expectations, Buhari’s regime made commendable strides in infrastructure.
However, Ajayi also noted that the fight against corruption did not sustain its momentum throughout the entire administration.
As Buhari’s tenure comes to an end, the legacy of Buhari’s eight-year presidency remains a subject of debate and individual perspectives, yet the incoming administration has the challenge to build upon existing policies and address areas of improvement to ensure a prosperous Nigeria.
