Bashir Salihi Magashi

Bashir Salihi Magashi, a retired Nigerian Army Major General and former Defence Minister of Nigeria, has had a significant impact on both Nigeria’s military and political spheres. Born on October 1, 1949, Magashi’s career is marked by high-ranking military roles and political appointments.

Early Life and Education

Magashi’s military journey began with his admission to the Nigerian Defence Academy in 1968. He was commissioned into the Nigerian Army in 1971 as part of the 5th Regular Combatant Course. His academic pursuits extended to Ahmadu Bello University in Zaria, where he obtained an advanced diploma in public administration, an LL.B. Honors, and was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1984.

Military Career

Magashi’s military career is notable for its diversity and significance. Starting as a platoon commander, he rose through the ranks, holding various positions including company commander, battalion commander, and brigade commander. His roles as Deputy Military Secretary and Brigade Commander at the Nigerian Defence Academy further highlight his leadership skills. He served as the military governor of Sokoto State from August 1990 to January 1992, a critical period in Nigeria’s military history. Magashi’s international military experience includes commanding the 15 Brigade of the ECOWAS Monitoring Group (ECOMOG) in Liberia and the Nigerian Contingent Force. He was part of the Sani Abacha Military Caucus in 1993 and was appointed as the commander of the Guards Brigade in Abuja. Magashi’s military career culminated in his role as commandant of the Nigerian Defence Academy, Kaduna.

Political Career

Magashi’s transition to politics saw him taking up roles such as the legal adviser to the All Nigeria People’s Party (ANPP) in 2002, and as the Kano State governorship candidate for the Democratic People’s Party (DPP) in 2007. He also served as the national chairman of the DPP before retiring from politics in 2014. In 2019, he was appointed as the Minister of Defence by President Muhammadu Buhari, a position he held until May 2023.

Controversies and Allegations

Magashi’s career has not been without controversy. An investigation by Premium Times reported his involvement in illegal crude oil allocation and funds from trade, with an alleged sum of $550,000 being involved in the Jersey UK branch of Bank PNP Paribus.

Honours, Awards, and Personal Life

In recognition of his service, Magashi has been awarded the Forces Service Star (FSS), Meritorious Service Star (MSS), and the Distinguished Service Star (DSS), along with the ECOMOG Medal and Silver Jubilee Medal. He has also received prestigious national awards including the Commander Order of the Niger (CON) and Commander of the Federal Republic (CFR).

Bashir Salihi Magashi: A Legacy of Leadership

Magashi’s career, marked by high-profile military and political roles, reflects a legacy of leadership and service to Nigeria. His journey from a military officer to a significant political figure underscores the dynamic nature of Nigeria’s governance and its military history. Despite controversies, his contributions to the nation’s military and political landscapes have left a lasting impact.