President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, to allocate a large parcel of land along Abuja’s Airport Road for the construction of the Abdulsalami Abubakar African Resource Centre.
The directive was announced on Saturday during the unveiling of three books in honour of former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar (retd.), as part of activities marking his 84th birthday.
Represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, President Tinubu described the proposed resource centre as a worthy initiative that reflects the values of leadership, peacebuilding, and public service that Abdulsalami has championed throughout his life.
The President also revealed that the Federal Government would fully fund the construction of the centre after reviewing the proposed building plan.
Tinubu Praises Abdulsalami’s Legacy
Tinubu paid tribute to the former military leader, describing him as a statesman whose leadership was defined by integrity, restraint, and a commitment to national development.
According to him, Abdulsalami’s contributions to Nigeria’s democratic journey remain a lasting example for future generations.
The President also commended the authors of the books unveiled at the event for preserving an important part of Nigeria’s history and documenting the former Head of State’s role in nation-building.
Three Books Unveiled In His Honour
The event, themed “The Legacy of a Statesman @84,” featured the presentation of three books dedicated to Abdulsalami’s life and contributions.
Among them was his autobiography, “Call of Duty,” alongside “Nigeria’s Grand Patriot: Gen. Abdulsalami Alhaji Abubakar” and “Mediating for Peace in Africa: A Festschrift in Honour of Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar.”
The ceremony was chaired by former Head of State General Yakubu Gowon, while former South African President Thabo Mbeki delivered the keynote address.
Abdulsalami Abubakar, who became Nigeria’s Head of State after the death of General Sani Abacha in 1998, is widely credited with overseeing the transition to democratic rule and handing over power to former President Olusegun Obasanjo in 1999.
