Muhammadu Buhari was born on December 17, 1942, in Daura, Katsina State, in what was then the Northern Region of British Nigeria. Hailing from a modest Fulani family, he was the 23rd child of his father, Mallam Hardo Adamu, a Fulani chief, and his mother, Zulaihat, who instilled in him deep values of discipline, humility, and Islamic faith.
Buhari’s early life was shaped by a traditional upbringing grounded in moral uprightness and a strong work ethic. He began his formal education at the age of seven, attending Daura and Mai’adua primary schools. His academic promise and determination led him to Katsina Middle School, and subsequently to the prestigious Katsina Provincial Secondary School (now Government College Katsina), where he continued to distinguish himself through discipline, intelligence, and leadership potential.
It was during these formative years that Buhari developed a sense of responsibility and public service, which would later define his career. Inspired by the values of honor, service, and patriotism, he joined the Nigerian Military Training College (NMTC) in 1961. From there, he was selected for further training at the Mons Officer Cadet School in Aldershot, United Kingdom—marking the beginning of his long and distinguished military career.
Muhammadu Buhari’s early life and education laid the solid foundation for the qualities of integrity, resilience, and public service that would later characterize his leadership style. From humble beginnings in Daura to becoming a globally respected statesman, Buhari’s journey was shaped by a relentless commitment to discipline, education, and national duty.