Abdulsalami chose honour over power – Tinubu

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has described former Head of State General Abdulsalami Abubakar as one of Nigeria’s most consequential leaders, crediting him with laying the foundation of the country’s current democratic era.

Speaking at a ceremony marking Abubakar’s 84th birthday and the public presentation of three books held at the Banquet Hall of the Presidential Villa, Abuja, Tinubu said the retired general “stands out as one of Nigeria’s most outstanding and courageous leaders”.

According to him, Abubakar is “a true statesman, a soldier-democrat, a passionate bridge-builder, a dependable patriot and a noble gentleman”, noting that the gathering reflected the esteem in which he is held across the continent.

The President, whose remarks were delivered by Vice President Kashim Shettima, said the books unveiled at the event “capture the essence of General Abubakar: his life, his work as a soldier and leader, and his contributions to the promotion and sustenance of democracy, peace, and development, not only in Nigeria but in Africa and beyond”.

He added that the presence of African leaders such as President Julius Maada Bio and former South African leader Thabo Mbeki underscored Abubakar’s continental significance.

Tinubu said: “No honour is too great for Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar. You deserve all the accolades bestowed upon you today.”

Reflecting on Nigeria’s political transition, he praised Abubakar’s decision to return the country to civilian rule in record time.

“At a critical juncture in Nigeria’s political history, Gen. Abubakar assumed leadership amid uncertainty and apprehension. He made a solemn commitment to restore democratic governance and, despite immense challenges, fulfilled his promise within 11 months,” he said.

The President added that Abubakar “did not prolong the transition to civil rule but handed over power on schedule, choosing honour and integrity over the allure of power”.

He further stated: “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.”

Tinubu said Nigeria’s current democratic stability was rooted in that decision, describing the former military ruler as “one of the founding fathers of modern democracy in Nigeria”.

He also recalled his personal experience during the transition period, saying: “I was one of those in exile. My decision to return… would not have been possible without a phone call that still resonates with me today.”

“That call from General Abdulsalami Abubakar… assured some of us in exile that he would implement a sincere transition programme and guarantee our safety,” he added.

Tinubu said that gesture shaped his return to political participation, adding: “Without it, I might not be standing here as President of Nigeria today.”

He stressed that Abubakar “literally and truly pulled Nigeria back from the edge of disintegration” during a turbulent moment in national history.

Describing him as “one of the founding fathers of modern democracy in Nigeria”, Tinubu praised his continued influence through peacebuilding efforts, including his role in the National Peace Committee chaired by the former leader.

He said: “Through the NPC, he has ensured that Nigerian political actors commit to peaceful conflict resolution and reject violence.”

The President also revealed that Abubakar remains one of his trusted advisers, stating: “He does not criticise publicly… but offers counsel through thoughtful memos and suggestions. I have found his advice invaluable.”

Tinubu further announced federal support for the Abdulsalami Abubakar Africa Resource Centre, directing the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, to allocate land for the project.

He said the centre would help promote “democratic ideals and sustainable peace across our nation and the continent”.

Concluding his address, Tinubu called for renewed commitment to national unity and democratic values, urging Nigerians to emulate Abubakar’s “selfless service, integrity, dedication and patriotism”.