Inuwa Yahaya Joins National Leaders to Celebrate Abdulsalami at 84, Hails Legacy of Peace, Service

Inuwa Yahaya Joins National Leaders to Celebrate Abdulsalami at 84, Hails Legacy of Peace, Service

By Jamila Muhammed

Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State has paid glowing tribute to former Head of State General Abdulsalami Abubakar as the elder statesman marked his 84th birthday with the unveiling of three books documenting his remarkable contributions to Nigeria and Africa.

Governor Inuwa, who is also Chairman of the Northern States Governors’ Forum, joined an impressive gathering of national and international dignitaries at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Saturday to honour the former military leader and respected advocate of peace.

The event attracted former Heads of state, senior government officials, diplomats, traditional rulers, business leaders, and development partners from across Nigeria and beyond.

A major highlight of the celebration was the unveiling of three books dedicated to General Abdulsalami’s life and accomplishments. The publications include 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 ceremony also featured a fundraising drive for the proposed Abdulsalami Abubakar Africa Resource Centre, an initiative designed to preserve and promote the former leader’s legacy in peacebuilding, leadership, and conflict resolution across the continent.

The project received overwhelming support, attracting nearly N2 billion in donations and pledges from prominent individuals, corporate organisations, and institutions.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to the establishment of the resource centre. He described General Abdulsalami as a statesman whose contributions to democratic transition, national stability, and peacebuilding have left an enduring mark on the nation.

Speaking on the occasion, Governor Inuwa Yahaya praised the former Head of State for his exceptional service to Nigeria, particularly his pivotal role in guiding the country back to democratic governance and his continued efforts in fostering peace and unity through the National Peace Committee.

According to the governor, General Abdulsalami remains one of Africa’s most respected voices on peace, dialogue, and democratic values.

“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,” the governor said.

Governor Inuwa noted that the former military leader’s commitment to nation-building and conflict resolution continues to inspire leaders across Nigeria and Africa, describing his legacy as one that will endure for generations.

The event served not only as a celebration of a distinguished life but also as a recognition of General Abdulsalami Abubakar’s lasting contributions to democratic governance, national cohesion, and peacebuilding on the continent.