President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has hailed former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar, for his enduring contributions to peace, democracy, and national development, while directing the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, to allocate land in Abuja for the construction of an office for the Abdulsalami Abubakar African Resource Centre (AAARC).
The President gave the directive on Saturday during the public presentation of three books—Call of Duty, Nigeria’s Grand Patriot, and Mediating for Peace in Africa—held in honour of General Abdulsalami Abubakar’s 84th birthday in Abuja.
Represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, President Tinubu described the former military leader as a statesman whose life has been defined by duty, moderation, courage, and an unwavering commitment to national service.
He noted that Abdulsalami’s decision to hand over power to a democratically elected government in 1999 laid the foundation for Nigeria’s Fourth Republic and its longest uninterrupted democratic era.
President Tinubu also recalled that Abdulsalami’s sincerity and commitment to restoring constitutional rule inspired many pro-democracy activists, including himself, to return and participate in the democratic process.
Speaking on the African Resource Centre, the President said the initiative aligns with the values Abdulsalami has championed throughout his life and directed the FCT Minister to provide a suitable parcel of land to support its mission.
Several African and Nigerian leaders paid tribute to the former Head of State during the event. Former South African President Thabo Mbeki described Abdulsalami as a key figure in Africa’s democratic and peacebuilding efforts, while former Head of State Yakubu Gowon praised his leadership during Nigeria’s transition to civilian rule.
Former Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Goodluck Jonathan also commended Abdulsalami’s contributions to national unity and peacebuilding.
In his remarks, General Abdulsalami Abubakar thanked President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima for supporting the commemorative event. He recalled leading Nigeria’s transition to democracy within 11 months in 1999 and urged Nigerians to continue promoting peace, justice, and national unity.
The event attracted prominent dignitaries from across Africa, including Sierra Leonean President Julius Maada Bio, government officials, traditional rulers, and members of the diplomatic community. Donations for the book presentation ran into hundreds of millions of naira, with major contributions from business leaders and public institutions.
