…Hail his democratic legacy
Nigeria’s political elite, elder statesmen, traditional rulers and top government officials yesterday converged in Abuja to celebrate former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar, as three books chronicling his life, leadership and contributions to peace-building were unveiled in commemoration of his 84th birthday.
Among the dignitaries at the event were former Head of State, Yakubu Gowon, former Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Goodluck Jonathan, while President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was represented by Vice-President Kashim Shettima. Other notable attendees included former Vice Presidents Namadi Sambo and Yemi Osinbajo, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau, Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas, and Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu.
Traditional rulers also graced the occasion, including Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar III and Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, alongside several other royal fathers from across the country. Also present were the President’s Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, Niger State Governor Umar Bago, and other senior government officials.
The books unveiled at the ceremony were: ‘Call of Duty: An Autobiography of Gen. Abdulsalami Alhaji Abubakar’, ‘Nigeria’s Grand Patriot: Gen. Abdulsalami Alhaji Abubakar’, and ‘Mediating for Peace in Africa: A Festschrift in Honour of Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar’.
Speaking at the event, Gowon paid glowing tribute to Abdulsalami, describing him as a leader whose actions restored public confidence in democracy at one of Nigeria’s most critical moments.
According to Gowon, Abdulsalami assumed office in 1998 following the sudden death of former military ruler Sani Abacha at a time when the nation was gripped by uncertainty and in need of stability. “You came to office at a very delicate moment for Nigeria, when the country needed calm, reassurance and a clear sense of direction,” Gowon said, noting that Abdulsalami’s leadership helped convince Nigerians that a return to democratic rule was achievable.
He particularly praised Abdulsalami’s decision to organise elections and hand over power to a civilian administration within 11 months, describing the move as a historic turning point in the country’s democratic evolution. “In choosing to organise elections and to hand over power within 11 months, you did something of lasting significance for our country”, Gowon stated.
The elder statesman further noted that Abdulsalami successfully managed competing interests within both the military and political class because of the trust and credibility he commanded. “You were able to carry both the military establishment and political leaders through that transition because your approach inspires trust”, he said.
Gowon also commended Abdulsalami’s contributions after leaving office, particularly his continued advocacy for peace, dialogue and conflict resolution in Nigeria and across Africa. “Over the years, you have remained a respected voice for dialogue, for peace, and for the patient work of building peace in Nigeria and across the continent”, he added.
He concluded by congratulating the former Head of State on his 84th birthday and wishing him continued good health and many more years of service to humanity.
