Nigeria’s political elite, including former presidents, serving officials, foreign dignitaries, traditional rulers, diplomats, and business leaders, gathered at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Saturday to celebrate former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar (retd.), on his 84th birthday.
The event also featured the public presentation of three books chronicling his life, military career, and contributions to peacebuilding and Nigeria’s democratic transition, alongside a fundraising ceremony for the proposed Abdulsalami Abubakar Africa Resource Centre.
The fundraising drive attracted nearly ₦2 billion in pledges and donations from prominent individuals and organisations. Business mogul Aliko Dangote contributed ₦500 million, while BUA Group chairman Abdul Samad Rabiu pledged ₦250 million. Other notable donations included ₦100 million from businessman Dahiru Mangal and ₦350 million from the Niger State Government.
President Bola Tinubu, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, also announced federal government backing for the proposed resource centre, directing that land be allocated along the Airport Road corridor in Abuja and confirming government support for its construction.
The President described Abdulsalami as a pivotal figure in Nigeria’s history, praising his decision to oversee a peaceful transition to civilian rule in 1999 after a brief period in office following the death of General Sani Abacha.
Former leaders, including Olusegun Obasanjo, Goodluck Jonathan, and Yakubu Gowon, alongside other regional and international figures, paid tribute to Abdulsalami’s leadership, describing him as a stabilising force in Nigeria’s democracy and a respected mediator in African peace efforts.
Speakers at the event highlighted his role in ending military rule, facilitating elections within 11 months of assuming office, and supporting democratic consolidation across the continent through peace initiatives.
Abdulsalami, in his remarks, expressed gratitude to attendees and urged continued commitment to peace, unity, and democratic governance, stressing that leadership should always be guided by service and national interest.
He also described the newly launched books as a legacy resource for future generations to understand Nigeria’s democratic journey and the importance of responsible leadership.
