The Arewa Economic Forum (AEF) recently hosted a robust debate among intellectuals, business leaders, and retired public servants, focusing on the comparative performance of General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida’s (IBB) military regime and General Muhammadu Buhari’s civilian administration. Both leaders, prominent figures in Nigeria’s history, have held the nation’s highest offices, with Babangida serving as the only Military President from 1985 to 1993 and Buhari completing two terms as a civilian president between 2015 and 2023.
Interestingly, both Babangida and Buhari share military backgrounds, having fought on the federal side during Nigeria’s Civil War (1967-1970) and later serving as Heads of State. Their paths intertwined in other ways as well, with Colonel Sambo Dasuki, a key military figure, playing a role in the coups that both brought Buhari to power in 1983 and eventually led to his overthrow in 1985, ushering in Babangida’s rule.
While Buhari’s supporters highlight his reforms, including the establishment of Africa’s most extensive social investment program and efforts to diversify the economy, Babangida’s backers point to his restructuring of Nigeria through the creation of 11 new states and major infrastructural projects. These include iconic developments like the Third Mainland Bridge in Lagos and the construction of Abuja’s Aso Rock Villa.
IBB’s Legacy: Restructuring and Infrastructure
Babangida’s administration is often credited for its comprehensive restructuring of Nigeria’s political framework. He created 11 new states, reducing local tensions and fostering a more inclusive federation. His administration also oversaw the establishment of critical security agencies, including the State Security Service (SSS) and National Intelligence Agency (NIA). In terms of infrastructure, IBB’s tenure delivered significant national projects such as the Shiroro Hydroelectric Power Station, the Kano Challawa Cenga Dam, and the Aso Rock Villa in Abuja.
Babangida’s regime is also remembered for efforts to maintain economic stability, particularly through petroleum subsidies and measures to keep inflation in check. He ensured timely payment of salaries and pensions, a point his supporters frequently emphasize in discussions about his economic stewardship.
Buhari’s Civilian Achievements: Social Investments and Legislative Reforms
In contrast, Buhari’s civilian administration is widely praised for implementing Africa’s most extensive Social Investment Program, designed to alleviate poverty and empower Nigeria’s most vulnerable populations. His administration also pushed for legislative reforms, such as the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), the Electoral Act, and the Start-up Act, among others.
Buhari is lauded for infrastructure projects like the completion of the Second Niger Bridge, the Lagos-Ibadan Standard Gauge rail line, and the Zungeru Power Plant. His administration also bolstered Nigeria’s military capabilities and addressed the insurgency in the North-East, a key area of focus throughout his tenure.
Comparing Leadership Styles and Governance
While Babangida is remembered for his top-down military approach, characterized by strategic restructuring and infrastructure development, Buhari’s legacy is framed around legislative reform, social investment, and economic diversification. Both leaders have had significant impacts on Nigeria’s political, social, and economic landscapes, but their governance styles and achievements cater to different national priorities.
A Shared Challenge: Corruption
Notably, both leaders face criticism for failing to adequately tackle corruption—a long-standing challenge for Nigeria’s development. While anti-corruption efforts were central to Buhari’s campaigns, his administration is accused of selective persecution, sparing political allies. Similarly, Babangida’s tenure was marked by criticisms of mismanagement and cronyism.
Conclusion
As the debate between these two administrations continues, the question of which leader had a greater impact on Nigeria remains subjective. Each made significant contributions in their own right—Babangida in restructuring and infrastructure, and Buhari in social programs and legislative reform. However, the persistent issue of corruption remains a stain on both legacies, hindering Nigeria’s potential for sustained development.
