Full List of Nigerian Presidents Since Independence (1960–2025): Civilian and Military Leaders Explained
Nigeria’s leadership history is a compelling mix of ballot-box victories and coup-backed takeovers. This post has engulfed the Nigerian presidents since independence.
Since gaining independence in 1960, the country has alternated between military rule and civilian governance.
Each transition told a story, sometimes hopeful, sometimes harrowing.
In this post, we break down all Nigerian heads of state, presidents, interim leaders, and military rulers.
Grouped into civilian and military eras, this guide offers a crisp, insightful overview of their time in office, with light commentary to provide depth without losing neutrality.
Full List of Nigerian Presidents Since Independence (1960–2025)
Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa
KBE PC (December 1912–January 1966) was the first and only prime minister of Nigeria. A dominant figure of Nigerian Independence, he was a conservative Anglophile. His political career spanned almost half a century.
Civilian Presidents of Nigeria (1963 – Present)
1. Nnamdi Azikiwe (1963–1966)
As the first ceremonial president after independence, Azikiwe represented unity and nationalism.
He didn’t wield executive power that belonged to Prime Minister Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, but his role symbolized Nigeria’s entrance into sovereignty.
2. Shehu Shagari (1979–1983)
Nigeria’s return to democracy was short-lived. Shagari’s administration struggled with corruption allegations and economic downturns, which led to his removal by the military in 1983.
3. Ernest Shonekan (1993, Interim)
Following the annulment of the June 12, 1993, elections, Shonekan was installed as head of the Interim National Government. It was a government without real authority, eventually toppled by Abacha within three months.
4. Olusegun Obasanjo (1999–2007)
Returning as a civilian president after ruling as a military leader in the ’70s, Obasanjo’s two-term tenure introduced privatization, telecom growth, and anti-corruption campaigns, though it was marred by a failed third-term attempt.
5. Umaru Musa Yar’Adua (2007–2010)
One of the few Nigerian leaders praised for transparency, Yar’Adua launched reforms and respected judicial independence.
Sadly, his administration was cut short by prolonged illness.
6. Goodluck Jonathan (2010–2015)
Known for overseeing one of Nigeria’s freest elections and expanding education for the underprivileged, Jonathan also faced criticism over rising insecurity and oil sector mismanagement.
He gained respect for peacefully conceding defeat in 2015.
7. Muhammadu Buhari (2015–2023)
Buhari’s return as an elected civilian president focused on corruption and terrorism. However, economic hardship and rising insecurity became major talking points during his tenure.
8. Bola Ahmed Tinubu (2023–Present)
Known as a political strategist, Tinubu came to power amid economic challenges. His early moves, subsidy removal and currency reforms, sparked both optimism and concern across different sectors.
Military Heads of State (1966-1999)
1. Aguiyi Ironsi (1966)
Ironsi came to power after Nigeria’s first coup. His attempt to centralize power via a unitary system sparked backlash, leading to his assassination just months later.
2. Yakubu Gowon (1966–1975)
At just 31, Gowon led Nigeria through its civil war. His post-war policies focused on “No Victor, No Vanquished,” but his reluctance to return to democracy led to his removal.
3. Murtala Mohammed (1975–1976)
Popular for his bold reforms, Murtala initiated the Abuja capital move and civil service shake-up.
He was assassinated in a failed coup attempt just a year into office.
4. Olusegun Obasanjo (1976–1979)
Obasanjo completed Murtala’s plans and earned credibility for handing power to a civilian government in 1979, an uncommon feat among military rulers.
5. Muhammadu Buhari (1983–1985)
Known for strict discipline and anti-corruption campaigns, Buhari’s regime was rigid.
He was eventually overthrown due to harsh economic policies and a poor human rights record.
6. Ibrahim Babangida (1985–1993)
Babangida’s economic reforms were ambitious but controversial.
His annulment of the June 12 elections remains a defining scar on Nigeria’s democratic record.
7. Sani Abacha (1993–1998)
Infamous for dictatorial rule and mass looting, Abacha’s regime is remembered for stifling dissent and human rights violations. His sudden death in 1998 ended a dark chapter.
8. Abdulsalami Abubakar (1998–1999)
He served briefly but left a lasting impact. Abubakar quickly organized elections and handed over power, laying the foundation for Nigeria’s ongoing democratic journey.
Summary Table | Nigerian Heads of State by Category
| Name | Role | Years | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nnamdi Azikiwe | President | 1963–1966 | Civilian |
| Olusegun Obasanjo | Head of State/President | 1976–1979, 1999–2007 | Military/Civilian |
| Muhammadu Buhari | Head of State/President | 1983–1985, 2015–2023 | Military/Civilian |
| … | … | … | … |
View full list at the end of the post or download PDF version [Coming Soon]
What Nigeria’s Presidents Teach Us
Every Nigerian leader came with a promise to unify, develop, or defend.
Some succeeded; others divided. As Nigeria keeps evolving, the lessons from past presidencies remain essential to shaping the next chapter.
