President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has paid glowing tribute to former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar (retd.), describing him as one of the key figures responsible for Nigeria’s uninterrupted democratic journey.
Speaking at the public presentation of three books launched in honour of Abdulsalami’s 84th birthday in Abuja, Tinubu said the former military leader chose honour, integrity, and national interest over the temptation of holding onto power.
According to the President, Abdulsalami fulfilled his promise to return Nigeria to democratic rule within 11 months, a move that paved the way for the Fourth Republic and the country’s longest democratic era.
“He didn’t prolong the transition to civil rule. He chose honour and integrity over the allure of power. We owe this enduring democracy to him,” Tinubu said.
“He Pulled Nigeria Back From The Edge”
Tinubu recalled the years of military rule when many pro-democracy activists believed the military would never willingly hand over power.
The President revealed that he was among those living in exile at the time and said Abdulsalami personally assured opposition figures that they could safely return to participate in the transition process.
According to him, that assurance gave many democracy advocates the confidence to come back home and support the transition programme.
He added that without Abdulsalami’s commitment to democracy, he might never have become Nigeria’s president.
A Legacy Beyond Power
Tinubu described Abdulsalami as a patriot, bridge-builder, and statesman whose impact extends far beyond his time in office.
He also praised the former Head of State for his continued role in promoting peace and stability through the National Peace Committee (NPC), which has helped encourage peaceful elections and conflict resolution in Nigeria.
The President disclosed that Abdulsalami remains one of his trusted advisers, often offering private guidance and recommendations on national issues.
Resource Centre Gets Presidential Backing
As part of efforts to preserve Abdulsalami’s legacy, Tinubu endorsed the establishment of the Abdulsalami Abubakar Africa Resource Centre (AAARC).
He directed the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, to allocate land in Abuja for the project and pledged support for its development.
The event attracted several prominent leaders, including former Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Goodluck Jonathan, Sierra Leonean President Julius Maada Bio, and former South African President Thabo Mbeki.
Source: Adapted from remarks by President Bola Tinubu at the presentation of books in honour of General Abdulsalami Abubakar.
