The Chairman of the Northern States Governors’ Forum and Governor of Gombe State, Muhammadu Yahaya, on Saturday, joined an array of distinguished Nigerians and international dignitaries to celebrate former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar, GCFR, on the occasion of his 84th birthday anniversary and the unveiling of three books chronicling his life, leadership and enduring contributions to nation-building, peace and democratic governance.
The event, held at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, was attended by former Heads of State, serving government officials, diplomats, traditional rulers, business leaders and development partners from within and outside Nigeria.
A major highlight of the ceremony was the unveiling of three publications in honour of the elder statesman: Call of Duty: An Autobiography of Gen. Abdulsalami Alhaji Abubakar; Nigeria’s Grand Patriot: Gen. Abdulsalami Alhaji Abubakar; and Mediating for Peace in Africa: A Festschrift in Honour of Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar.
The event also served as a fundraising platform for the proposed Abdulsalami Abubakar Africa Resource Centre, an initiative aimed at preserving the former leader’s legacy in peacebuilding, leadership and conflict resolution across Africa.
The project received overwhelming support, attracting nearly N2 billion in donations and pledges from prominent Nigerians, corporate organisations and institutions.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, announced the Federal Government’s support for the establishment of the resource centre, describing General Abdulsalami Abubakar as a statesman whose contributions to national stability, democratic transition and peacebuilding remain invaluable.
Governor Inuwa Yahaya, who had earlier paid glowing tribute to the former Nigerian leader in a goodwill message marking his 84th birthday, described General Abdulsalami as an iconic statesman, distinguished soldier and one of Africa’s most respected advocates for peace and democracy.
He commended the former Head of State for his selfless service to Nigeria, particularly his historic role in facilitating the country’s return to democratic rule and his continued efforts in promoting peace, dialogue and national cohesion through the National Peace Committee.
“General Abdulsalami Abubakar remains a shining example of patriotism, humility and statesmanship.
His life of sacrifice, integrity and service to humanity is worthy of celebration and emulation by present and future generations of leaders,” Governor Inuwa Yahaya said.