Former South African President Thabo Mbeki has praised former Nigerian Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar, for resisting the temptation to remain in power and instead steering Nigeria back to democratic rule within 11 months of assuming office.
Mbeki made the remarks virtually on Saturday at the public presentation of three books held in honour of General Abdulsalami Abubakar’s 84th birthday at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
He said Abdulsalami’s conduct after the death of General Sani Abacha in June 1998 reflected exceptional leadership, discipline, and statesmanship at a critical moment in Nigeria’s history.
According to him, the former military ruler quickly recognised the need for national stability and democratic governance, and deliberately chose a short transition timeline rather than extend military rule.
“Following his appointment as Head of State by the Provisional Ruling Council, he recognised the urgent need for stability and democratic governance and hence chose to commit to a short transition period,” Mbeki said.
He noted that Abdulsalami placed national interest above personal ambition, even when the “temptation and allure of power” could have led to a different path.
“His response to the political uncertainties that followed the sudden demise of General Sani Abacha demonstrated great wisdom, foresight and statesmanship,” he added.
Mbeki said the transition process under Abdulsalami was significant not only for its speed but also for its long-term impact on Nigeria’s democratic development and institutional stability.
He explained that key reforms and arrangements introduced during the period helped shape the 1999 elections and provided a foundation for sustained democratic governance.
The former South African president further noted that Abdulsalami’s legacy challenges stereotypes about military rulers in Africa, describing his leadership as a blend of discipline and democratic responsibility.
“However, the beauty lies in the fact that he performed both duties with a keen sense of justice and history, responsibility and distinction,” he said.
Mbeki also emphasised the importance of research and documentation in governance, warning that weak scholarship can lead to misinterpretation of history and poor policy decisions.
The event featured the presentation of three books in honour of the former Head of State, including 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.
