Jun 14, 2026

Abubakar Celebrates 84th Birthday with Book Launch in Abuja

By Afolabi Olaiya Idowu in news

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Abuja, June 14, 2026 — Former Head of State General Abdulsalami Abubakar (GCFR) marked his 84th birthday yesterday with a grand celebration at the State House Banquet Hall, Presidential Villa, Abuja, where three books chronicling his life and legacy were publicly launched.

The event, themed “General Abdulsalami Abubakar @ 84: Legacy of a Statesman,” brought together Nigeria’s political elite, including Vice President Kashim Shettima, who represented President Bola Tinubu, former Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo, Goodluck Jonathan, and Yakubu Gowon, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and opposition figures such as Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi.

In a video clip shared by ARISE News, General Abubakar reflected on his brief but pivotal tenure as head of state. “When I assumed office as head of state in 1998, Nigeria stood at a crossroads, a nation yearning for stability, democracy and good governance,” he said.

“The call came loud and clear to return the country to civilian rule from various segments of society, political leaders, civil society, the international community and most importantly Nigerians. I remained true to my commitments; I midwifed democratic governance in 11 months.”

His 11-month leadership, from June 1998 to May 29, 1999, is widely credited with stabilising Nigeria after the death of General Sani Abacha and successfully organising a transition to civilian rule that produced the Fourth Republic.

Books Launched and Major Announcements

**Three landmark books were unveiled during the celebration:

*Call of Duty: An Autobiography of Gen. Abdulsalami Alhaji Abubakar*
*Nigeria’s Grand Patriot: Gen. Abdulsalami Alhaji Abubakar, GCFR*
*Mediating for Peace in Africa: A Festschrift in Honour of General Abdulsalami A. Abubakar***

The books highlight his military career, statesmanship, and role in African peace mediation. Reports indicate the launch raised substantial funds for his philanthropic initiatives.

In a significant gesture, Vice President Shettima announced that the Federal Government has directed the allocation of land in Abuja for the construction of the General Abdulsalami Abubakar Peace Centre along the airport road.

Speakers at the event praised Abubakar’s restraint, integrity, and commitment to national unity. His peaceful handover of power in 1999 remains a rare example of military-to-civilian transition in Africa.

Attendees described him as a “gentle general” and “true statesman” whose legacy continues to inspire.

General Abubakar also used the occasion to commend President Tinubu’s leadership and thank Nigerians for their support over the years.

The celebration underscored the enduring respect across political divides for the man who helped steer Nigeria back to democratic governance 27 years ago.

As the nation grapples with contemporary challenges, Abubakar’s story of disciplined transition and national service continues to resonate as a model of purposeful leadership.