President Muhammadu Buhari revealed on Friday that he fled his hometown of Daura to join the Nigerian Army due to growing pressure for him to get married.
The President made this revelation during a visit to the Emir of Daura, Faruk Faruk, after unveiling two roads.
According to a statement released by the President’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina, Buhari stated that he secured his first job early after school to manage a co-operative in Daura, but had to escape and join the army when there was pressure that he should get married.
The President also spoke about his experiences during the Nigerian Civil War, saying “I was at the war front during the civil war, and saw how many died. Some fell right beside me. God kept me. Many bridges were blown just before we arrived at some places, and after we crossed. I arrived at some places to see bodies of my own colleagues that we were fighting together. I am alive today only by God’s grace.”
Buhari also acknowledged the role of destiny in his life, saying “We make choices in life, but eventually destiny is before God.”
He also credited his role as the chief executive of a diverse country like Nigeria to the grace of God and assured the emirate that he would return and settle in Daura after handing over on May 29, 2023.
The Emir of Daura also praised Governor Aminu Masari and described Buhari’s survival in a bomb attack in 2014 as “a divine act”.
He also lauded the Governor’s efforts to improve the state within the resources available to the administration.