Abdulsalami Abubakar

Early Life and Background

Abdulsalami Alhaji Abubakar was born on June 13, 1942, in Minna, Niger State, which was then part of the Northern Region of British Nigeria. He hails from the Gwari ethnic group. His early life was spent in Minna, where he received his foundational education. Growing up in a period of significant political and social change in Nigeria, Abubakar was exposed to the evolving dynamics of a nation on the cusp of independence and navigating its post-colonial identity. His family background instilled values of discipline and service, which would later manifest in his distinguished military career.

Education

Abubakar's educational journey began at the Native Authority Primary School in Minna, where he completed his primary education. He then proceeded to the Provincial Secondary School, Bida, from 1957 to 1962, where he obtained his West African School Certificate. Following his secondary education, he attended the Kaduna Technical Institute from 1963 to 1964. In 1963, Abdulsalami Abubakar embarked on his military career, enrolling in the Nigerian Air Force Tactical Training Wing in Kaduna. He later continued his military education at the German Air Force Academy in 1964. In 1967, he attended the Short Service Course at the Nigerian Defence Academy in Kaduna. Furthering his professional development, he participated in the Advanced Armoured Officers' Course in the United States in 1972 and the Command and Staff College, Jaji, in 1976. He also attended the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru, in 1982, and the Senior Executive Course at the same institution.

Career

Abdulsalami Abubakar joined the Nigerian Army in 1963 and was commissioned as an officer in 1967. His military career saw him rise through the ranks, holding various command and staff appointments. He served as a company commander, battalion commander, and brigade commander, gaining extensive operational experience. Notable appointments included Garrison Commander, I Corps, Director of Training, Army Headquarters, and Commander of the 82 Mechanized Division. He was also a member of the Armed Forces Ruling Council (AFRC) under General Ibrahim Babangida. In 1991, he was appointed the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 82nd Division of the Nigerian Army. He later became the Chief of Defence Staff, a position he held from 1993 until 1998, under the regime of General Sani Abacha. Following the sudden death of General Sani Abacha on June 8, 1998, General Abubakar was appointed as the Head of State and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria on June 9, 1998. His assumption of power marked a critical juncture for Nigeria, which was then under significant international pressure due to its prolonged military rule and human rights record.

Major Achievements

General Abdulsalami Abubakar's most significant achievement was his commitment to and successful execution of a swift and credible transition to civilian democratic rule. Upon assuming office, he immediately initiated a program for political transition, promising to hand over power to an elected civilian government within one year. He released several high-profile political detainees, including former Head of State Olusegun Obasanjo and Chief M.K.O. Abiola's running mate, Ambassador Babagana Kingibe, thereby de-escalating political tensions. His administration repealed several decrees that had stifled political expression and human rights. He oversaw the formation of new political parties and the conduct of local government, state, and presidential elections. On May 29, 1999, General Abubakar honorably handed over power to the newly elected civilian President, Olusegun Obasanjo, marking the end of nearly sixteen continuous years of military rule and ushering in Nigeria's Fourth Republic. This act earned him widespread international acclaim and commendation for restoring democracy to Africa's most populous nation. After leaving office, General Abubakar has continued to play a significant role in promoting peace, democracy, and good governance across Africa, serving on various international bodies and election observer missions.

Controversies

While General Abdulsalami Abubakar is largely celebrated for his role in Nigeria's democratic transition, his administration was not without its share of controversies. Questions were raised regarding the handling of the national treasury and the privatization of state assets during his brief tenure, with some critics alleging a lack of transparency. Additionally, his government faced scrutiny regarding the circumstances surrounding the death of Chief M.K.O. Abiola, who died in detention just one month after Abubakar assumed power. Although an independent autopsy concluded Abiola died of natural causes, conspiracy theories persisted, casting a shadow over the early days of Abubakar's regime. Furthermore, as a high-ranking officer in the Abacha regime, Abubakar was implicitly linked to the human rights abuses and corruption that characterized that period, although he was seen as a reformer who sought to rectify past wrongs rather than perpetuate them.

Personal Life

General Abdulsalami Abubakar is married to Justice Fati Lami Abubakar, who served as the First Lady of Nigeria during his headship of state and later became the Chief Judge of Niger State. They have six children: two sons and four daughters. His family life has generally been kept private, reflecting a preference for discretion despite his public role. Post-presidency, General Abubakar has remained an influential figure, dedicating his efforts to various peace initiatives and conflict resolution efforts across the African continent. He is a member of the Elders, a group of independent global leaders working for peace and human rights, founded by Nelson Mandela. He also chairs the National Peace Committee in Nigeria, which plays a crucial role in ensuring peaceful elections.

Legacy

General Abdulsalami Abubakar's legacy is primarily defined by his pivotal role in Nigeria's return to democratic governance. His commitment to a swift and unconditional handover of power is seen as a defining moment that stabilized Nigeria and set it on a path towards sustained civilian rule. He is often referred to as the 'father of Nigeria's Fourth Republic' due to his decisive actions in a critical period. His post-presidency engagement in peace-building, election monitoring, and conflict resolution initiatives, particularly through the Abdulsalami Abubakar Institute for Peace and Sustainable Development Studies and his involvement with The Elders, further solidifies his reputation as a statesman dedicated to stability and progress in Africa. His actions averted potential political chaos and laid the foundation for a more open and accountable government, earning him respect both nationally and internationally.