•Dangote, Rabiu, TY Danjuma donate N16b
Former Nigerian leaders and dignitaries gathered in Abuja on Thursday to celebrate former military President General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida at the launch of his autobiography, A Journey in Service.
In his goodwill message, former Head of State General Yakubu Gowon reflected on his ouster from power, jokingly wondering whether Babangida had a hand in it.
He recalled how, despite his efforts to discourage military intervention, he was accused of involvement in Colonel Bukar Suka Dimka’s failed coup attempt.
“I had a rough time. I was even charged with treason. Did you believe that?” Gowon remarked.
Gowon, who had encouraged a young Babangida to join the military, expressed gratitude that Babangida later restored his rank and even urged him to contest the presidency. However, he humorously admitted that his political aspirations never gained traction.
“When it came, I can assure you it didn’t go beyond the ward level, indicating that the people didn’t want the military,” he said.
Former Head of State General Abdulsalami Abubakar shared an intriguing anecdote, revealing that a soothsayer had predicted in 1952 that Babangida would become Head of State.
Former President Goodluck Jonathan described Babangida as one of Nigeria’s most charismatic leaders, noting that his Minna residence remains a political pilgrimage site.
He also underscored the importance of presidential libraries as national assets and called on President Bola Tinubu to establish a dedicated government department for their development.
The event, which also served as a fundraiser for the proposed IBB Presidential Library and Events Centre, saw numerous pledges of financial support.
Former President Muhammadu Buhari was absent but was represented by former Minister of Transport, Muazu Jaji Sambo.
The keynote address was delivered by former Ghanaian President Nana Addo Akufo-Addo.
Among the distinguished attendees were former Sierra Leonean President Ernest Bai Koroma, former Nigerian Vice Presidents Atiku Abubakar, Namadi Sambo, and Yemi Osinbajo (who served as the book reviewer). Other notable figures included Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, General Alani Akinrinade, Obong Victor Attah, Donald Duke, Rotimi Amaechi, Otunba Gbenga Daniel, Nasir el-Rufai, Muazu Babangida Aliyu, James Ibori, Chief Arthur Eze, Andy Uba, Aliko Dangote, Segun Osoba, the Sultan of Sokoto, Rabiu Kwankwaso, and Mohammed Marwa.
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