Jonathan to Abdulsalami: It took courage to reject power with soldiers and rifles around you

FORMER President Goodluck Jonathan has commended former military Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar, for his contribution to Nigeria’s democratic journey, describing him as one of the key figures behind the country’s democratic stability.

Jonathan spoke on Saturday in Abuja during the public presentation of 3 books published in honour of Abdulsalami’s 84th birthday. The event celebrated the former military ruler’s legacy and service to the nation.

Abdulsalami governed Nigeria between June 9, 1998, and May 29, 1999, overseeing the transition from military rule to civilian government before handing power to Olusegun Obasanjo.

READ ALSO: 2027: Turaki-led PDP set to ratify Jonathan’s nomination Saturday but doubts remain

According to Jonathan, no individual deserves more credit for helping stabilise Nigeria’s democracy than the retired general. He said Abdulsalami demonstrated unusual courage by choosing to relinquish power despite pressure that could have encouraged him to remain in office.

“With so many well-ironed khaki people around you with assault rifles and APCs, saying that we will still stay on, and for you to have the courage to say no, it takes somebody who has a commitment to the peace and progress of the country,” Jonathan said.

The former president noted that Abdulsalami belongs to a rare group of leaders whose impact extends far beyond the offices they occupied, describing him as a statesman whose life reflects humility, patriotism and wisdom.

Jonathan also reflected on his own experience after losing the 2015 presidential election, recalling how some people attempted to comfort him afterwards. He maintained, however, that Abdulsalami’s role in protecting democratic governance remains unmatched.

Drawing a contrast with another unnamed former head of state, Jonathan said there had been a leader who, at a critical moment, chose not to relinquish power after being persuaded by his wife to remain in office. He said the decision ultimately became ‘a very ugly history,’ adding that Abdulsalami deserved commendation for taking a different path.

Describing the celebrant as a distinguished national leader, Jonathan said the gathering was not simply about marking another birthday but recognising a lifetime dedicated to service, both to Nigeria and humanity.

He said the event’s theme, ‘Legacy of the Statesman,’ was particularly appropriate, stressing that a person’s legacy is measured not by longevity but by the values they leave behind, the institutions they strengthen and the lives they influence.

Jonathan recalled that at a crucial period in Nigeria’s history, Abdulsalami displayed uncommon selflessness by steering the country through a peaceful democratic transition that restored civilian rule and renewed national hope.

READ ALSO: Abdulsalami, Atiku, El-Rufai, Fagbemi, Metuh, Bafarawa, others own $2bn properties in Dubai

“His actions during that critical period reinforced the principle that true leadership is not about power, but sacrifice and commitment to the greater good,” he said.

Beyond his time in office, Jonathan said Abdulsalami has continued to promote peace, dialogue, national unity and democratic stability through the National Peace Committee, which he chairs.

He added that the former head of state has remained actively involved in election peace efforts, conflict resolution and nation-building initiatives, noting that he personally witnessed some of those interventions while serving as president, particularly Abdulsalami’s engagements in Sudan.

Jonathan said the publication of 3 books would help preserve important historical records, capture leadership lessons and inspire future generations through the example of one of Nigeria’s most respected elder statesmen.

He concluded that Abdulsalami’s life offers enduring lessons in integrity, humility, patriotism and commitment to national service, stressing that nations are built not only through policies and institutions but also through the character of their leaders.