Tinubu honors Abdulsalami Abubakar for his leadership during tough times

President Bola Tinubu has praised Abdulsalami Abubakar, the last military ruler of Nigeria, for his contributions as an elder statesman since leaving office.

Tinubu highlighted Abubakar’s founding of the National Peace Committee. He noted Abubakar’s continued role in promoting peace, national unity, democratic stability, and responsible political engagement.

The president also told Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, to give land in Abuja for an office for the Abdulsalami Abubakar African Resource Centre (AAARC).

Tinubu made these remarks on Saturday in Abuja during the public presentation of three books: Call of Duty, Nigeria’s Grand Patriot, and Mediating for Peace in Africa, in honor of Abubakar.

While speaking at the book launch, which was also held to celebrate Abubakar’s 84th birthday, Tinubu was represented by his deputy, Vice President Kashim Shettima. He said the attendance of dignitaries from Nigeria and abroad showed respect for Abubakar’s life.

Tinubu explained why the AAARC needs a proper office in Abuja. He said, "The establishment of the Abdulsalami Abubakar Africa Resource Centre is a worthy initiative that aligns with the values General Abubakar has championed throughout his life."

He continued, "In recognition of its importance, I hereby direct the Honourable Minister of the Federal Capital Territory to allocate a suitable parcel of land within the Federal Capital Territory for the development of the Centre and the advancement of its mission."

The president mentioned that Abubakar’s life has been about duty, moderation, courage, and commitment to the public. He said, "He occupies a unique place in the history of our nation."

He added, "At a moment of profound uncertainty, when Nigeria stood at a crossroads, providence entrusted him with the responsibility of leadership. He understood both the weight of that responsibility and the demands of the moment. He pledged to return the country to democratic rule, and he fulfilled that pledge faithfully and honourably."

Tinubu recalled how Abubakar "rendered one of the greatest services any leader can render a nation," putting the country above self and principle above power.

He said the peaceful transition Abubakar oversaw in 1999 "gave birth to the Fourth Republic, the longest uninterrupted democratic period in Nigeria’s history."

The president acknowledged that millions of Nigerians, including him and others in public office, are beneficiaries of the stability and democratic foundation that Abubakar’s leadership helped secure.

Tinubu said his own political journey was shaped by the transition led by Abubakar. He noted that Abubakar’s sincerity drew him back to participate in the democratic process.

He said, "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."

Tinubu added, "He kept his word and, as a result, helped steady the ship of state, preserved national cohesion, and guided our country safely towards democracy. For that service, generations of Nigerians will remain in his debt. Yet his contribution did not end with his departure from office."

He praised the authors of the books for preserving an important chapter of Nigeria’s history. He said it is essential for future generations to learn from Abubakar’s life, which "embodies service before self."

Earlier, Thabo Mbeki, a former President of South Africa, spoke at the event. He said Abubakar’s hard work helped strengthen democratic governance and peace across Africa. He added that these are crucial for fulfilling Africans' dreams.

Mbeki praised Abubakar, saying he chose Nigeria’s well-being over personal interests. He emphasized Abubakar’s commitment to democratic governance and peace in Nigeria.

Yakubu Gowon, a former Head of State who chaired the event, said there is much to learn from Abubakar’s leadership and legacy of peace. He noted Abubakar’s role in leading Africa’s significant transition from military to civilian rule.

Gowon said Abubakar’s work in mediation is legendary across Africa. He encouraged young Africans to emulate Abubakar’s ideals of patriotism and placing the country above self.

Olusegun Obasanjo, a former president, mentioned that Nigerian military leaders, including Abubakar, have contributed to keeping Nigeria united. He acknowledged Abubakar’s role as a peacemaker in Nigeria.

Goodluck Jonathan, another former president, called Abubakar a remarkable statesman who shows wisdom and dedication to the nation. He noted Abubakar’s ongoing efforts to promote peace within and outside Nigeria.

Julius Bio, President of Sierra Leone and Chairman of ECOWAS, explained that the three books launched show a life dedicated to service, patriotism, and leadership. He stated that history remembers leaders who give up power for a greater national purpose.

Fatima Abubakar, the former First Lady and wife of the celebrant, thanked everyone for celebrating her husband’s life. She said he is a peace-loving man who ensured the family never lacked anything, even when he was away on national duties.

In his remarks, Abubakar thanked President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima for their support during the event. He recalled becoming head of state in 1998 when Nigeria was at a crossroads. He said he and others worked to ensure the country’s democratic transition in just 11 months.

Abubakar stressed that this step helped unite the nation. He urged all stakeholders to keep pushing for peace, justice, and national unity.