President Bola Tinubu has praised former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar, for his continued role in promoting peace, unity and democratic stability in Nigeria and across Africa.
Tinubu spoke in Abuja at the public presentation of three books in honour of the former military leader on Saturday.
The President was represented at the event by Vice President Kashim Shettima.
He described Abdulsalami as a statesman whose leadership helped secure Nigeria’s transition to democratic rule in 1999.
Tinubu said the peaceful handover marked the beginning of Nigeria’s Fourth Republic and its longest democratic era.
He noted that many Nigerians, including himself, are beneficiaries of the stability that followed the transition.
The President said Abdulsalami’s leadership demonstrated courage, moderation and commitment to national unity.
Tinubu also directed the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, to allocate land for a new office complex for the Abdulsalami Abubakar African Resource Centre.
He said the centre aligns with the former leader’s lifelong dedication to peacebuilding and public service.
According to him, the initiative deserves proper institutional support within the Federal Capital Territory.
Tinubu commended authors of the books for documenting Abdulsalami’s contributions to Nigeria’s history.
Former South African President Thabo Mbeki also praised Abdulsalami’s role in strengthening democratic governance in Africa.
Former Heads of State Yakubu Gowon and Olusegun Obasanjo lauded his leadership and commitment to a peaceful transition.
Former President Goodluck Jonathan described Abdulsalami’s decision to hand over power in 1999 as a defining moment in Nigeria’s democracy.
Jonathan also highlighted his post-office contributions through the National Peace Committee.
ECOWAS Chairman Julius Maada Bio said the books reflect a life dedicated to service and peacebuilding.
Abdulsalami expressed gratitude to Tinubu and other dignitaries for honouring him at the event.
He recalled leading Nigeria through a rapid transition to civilian rule within 11 months in 1999.
The former Head of State urged continued efforts toward national unity, justice and peace.
The ceremony attracted major political leaders, traditional rulers, lawmakers and business figures.
Prominent donors contributed hundreds of millions of naira in support of the book presentation and related initiatives.
