President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has paid glowing tribute to former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar (retd), on his 84th Birthday,describing him as one of the founding fathers of modern democracy in Nigeria.
President Tinubu stated this on Saturday at the Banquet Hall of the State House, Abuja, during the public presentation of three books written in honour of the elderstateman.
The President who was represented at the event by Vice President Kashim Shettima, said General Abdulsalami assumed leadership at a critical moment in Nigeria’s political history and fulfilled his promise to restore democratic governance within eleven months despite challenges.
The Nigerian Leader said that the former Head of State chose honour and integrity over the allure of power by handing over to a democratically elected government on schedule, thereby giving birth to the Fourth Republic in 1999, which remains the most enduring democratic era in the nation’s history.
President Tinubu said Rtd Gen. Abdulsalami placed the love of country above personal interests and gains, demonstrating vision, integrity and selflessness while ensuring that democratic institutions were not only restored but also strengthened.
“It is necessary to place in proper perspective the extent of this nation’s indebtedness to General Abubakar for walking a tightrope, saving and stabilising the nation at one of its most challenging points in history. By that commitment, General Abubakar, you literally and truly pulled Nigeria back from the edge of disintegration,” he said.
The President noted that Abdulsalami’s single-minded determination laid the foundation for Nigeria’s uninterrupted democratic experience and praised his continued role in nurturing democracy through the National Peace Committee.
He said the former Head of State has continued to promote peace and stability by ensuring that political actors embrace peaceful conflict resolution and reject violence.
“It is on record, General, that you placed the love of country above personal interests and gains. You superintended over a transition that gave birth to the ongoing Fourth Republic in 1999, the most enduring democratic era in Nigeria’s history. You demonstrated vision, integrity and selflessness, ensuring democratic institutions were not only restored but also strengthened.
“On behalf of a grateful nation, I thank you immensely for your service and sacrifice. We owe this enduring democratic era to you,” he stated.
President Tinubu also recalled that many pro-democracy activists, including members of NADECO, NALICON and the Campaign for Democracy, were uncertain that the military would relinquish power after years in government.
He disclosed that while in exile, he received assurances from Gen. Abdulsalami that the transition programme would be sincere and that returning activists would be guaranteed safety.
“I was one of those in exile. My decision to return and participate in the transition programme would not have been possible without a phone call that still resonates with me today. That call from General Abdulsalami Abubakar, as Head of State, assured some of us in exile that he would implement a sincere transition programme and, if we returned, guarantee our safety.
I seize this opportunity to thank General Abubakar for that singular gesture and for keeping his promise to organise a free and fair transition programme. Without it, I might not be standing here as President of Nigeria today. General Abubakar, once again, thank you.” President Tinubu added
The President further described Abdulsalami Abubakar as one of his best and most discreet advisers, noting that he continues to offer valuable counsel through thoughtful memos and suggestions.
“He does not criticise publicly the occupant of the office he once held but offers counsel through thoughtful memos and suggestions. I have found his advice invaluable, and I am a better leader for it. Thank you, sir,” the president said.
As part of efforts to preserve the former Head of State’s legacy, President Tinubu directed the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, to allocate a suitable parcel of land within the FCT for the proposed Abdulsalami Abubakar Africa Resource Centre.
“It is necessary to place in proper perspective the extent of this nation’s indebtedness to General Abubakar for walking a tightrope, saving and stabilising the nation at one of its most challenging points in history. By that commitment, General Abubakar, you literally and truly pulled Nigeria back from the edge of disintegration.
“This is to support the growth, development and long-lasting impact of the institution in promoting democratic ideals and sustainable peace across our nation and the continent,” he said.
The President highlighted that the centre would support the promotion of democratic ideals and sustainable peace across Nigeria and the African continent.
President Tinubu also commended the authors of the three books launched in honour of Abdulsalami, saying the publications would help preserve history and impart leadership wisdom to present and future generations.
Former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon (retd.), who was the chairman of the occasion, urged Nigerians to draw inspiration from the life and values of former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar (retd.), describing his commitment to national unity, peace and selfless service as worthy of emulation.
The elderstateman described the former military leader as an outstanding patriot and statesman whose dedication to Nigeria’s unity and stability has remained unwavering throughout his years of public service.
He further commended Gen. Abdulsalami for overseeing one of Nigeria’s most successful transitions from military to civilian rule and for his continued contributions to peacebuilding, conflict resolution and democratic development in Nigeria and across the African continent.
Similarly, Senate President Godswill Akpabio praised General Abdulsalami Abubakar for his significant contributions to Nigeria’s democratic development, noting that he resisted calls from some quarters to prolong military rule and instead remained committed to his transition programme.
Akpabio noted that President Tinubu has remained resolute in the face of forces working against the country’s development, assuring Nigerians that ongoing efforts by the administration would lead to the defeat of terrorism and a significant reduction in poverty across the country.
