Tinubu, Jonathan, Obasanjo pay tribute to Abdulsalami at Abuja book launch

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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has paid glowing tribute to former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar (retd.), describing him as a statesman whose commitment to peace, democracy, national unity and responsible political engagement continues to inspire Nigeria and the African continent.

The President also directed the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, to allocate a suitable parcel of land in Abuja for the development of the Abdulsalami Abubakar African Resource Centre (AAARC).

Represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima at the public presentation of three books in honour of the former military leader, Tinubu said Abdulsalami occupies a unique place in Nigeria’s history for successfully overseeing the country’s transition from military rule to democracy in 1999.

According to the President, the former Head of State fulfilled his promise to return Nigeria to democratic governance at a critical period in the nation’s history, helping to lay the foundation for the Fourth Republic, Nigeria’s longest uninterrupted democratic era.

“Like many pro-democracy activists of that era, I returned to participate in the democratic process because I was convinced of General Abdulsalami Abubakar’s sincerity and determination to restore constitutional rule. He kept his word and helped steady the ship of state,” Tinubu said.

The President praised Abdulsalami’s continued role in promoting peaceful elections and national cohesion through the National Peace Committee, noting that his service to the nation did not end with his departure from office.

He further described the establishment of the Abdulsalami Abubakar African Resource Centre as a worthy initiative deserving government support, directing the FCT Administration to provide land for its development.

The event, which coincided with Abdulsalami’s 84th birthday, attracted prominent leaders from across Africa, including former South African President Thabo Mbeki, former Heads of State and Presidents, governors, lawmakers, traditional rulers and members of the diplomatic community.

Former President Goodluck Jonathan commended Abdulsalami for resisting pressure to prolong military rule and for ensuring a smooth democratic transition in 1999, while former Head of State General Yakubu Gowon described his leadership as a model of peaceful transfer of power.

In his remarks, Abdulsalami thanked President Tinubu and other dignitaries for honouring him, recalling that Nigeria was at a crossroads when he assumed office in 1998 and that the transition to civilian rule within 11 months helped preserve national unity and democratic governance.

The book launch also attracted significant donations, with Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote, contributing ₦500 million, BUA Group Chairman Abdul Samad Rabiu donating ₦250 million, while the Senate, House of Representatives, governors and corporate organisations pledged additional support.

The event celebrated not only Abdulsalami’s legacy as Nigeria’s former leader but also his enduring contributions to peacebuilding, democratic consolidation and leadership across Africa.