General Abubakar remains a towering figure of stabilizing influence across our continent. When the history of West Africa’s democratic maturation is written, his courageous decision to return power to civilians in Nigeria in 1999 will be recorded as a pivotal turning point. He did not just hand over power; he handed over a blueprint for honourable leadership that many of us still look to today. He is a true elder statesman of Africa.

Abdulsalami is a man of his word. In a region often plagued by leaders who overstay their welcome, he stands apart for having the discipline to complete his mission and step aside. His continued work as Chair of the National Peace Committee was vital during my own presidency. His steady hand and wise counsel ensure that despite our political differences, the stability of Nigeria always comes first. He is a patriot in the truest sense.

The United Nations has often relied on the quiet diplomacy and unimpeachable integrity of General Abubakar. From Liberia to Sudan, whenever mediation required a leader trusted by all sides, his name was foremost. He understands that lasting peace isn't imposed by force but built through dialogue. He remains an indispensable partner to the international community in our collective pursuit of stability.

General Abubakar’s life demonstrates that the most effective peacebuilders are often those who govern with humility. Having held supreme power, he walked away from it for the greater good—an act of immense moral authority that few leaders possess. Through his Institute and his work with The Elders, he continues to teach the world that true strength lies in restraint and the ability to unify divided peoples.

We served together in times when the fate of our nation hung in the balance. Abdulsalami was always a soldier’s soldier—disciplined, professional, and fiercely loyal to the Nigerian state above self-interest. When destiny called upon him to lead the transition, those of us who knew him were not surprised that he executed the task with military precision and honour. He kept the promise the military made to the people.

General Abubakar serves as a unique case study in successful civil-military relations in Africa. He successfully transitioned from a military commander wielding absolute authority to a democratic diplomat wielding moral persuasion. His founding of the AAIPSDS in Minna demonstrates his intellectual understanding that peace is not just the absence of war, but the presence of justice and development. He is a statesman who studies peace as rigorously as he once studied strategy.

The world knows him as the General who gave Nigeria democracy and travels the globe mediating conflicts. But at home, we know him simply as a man of deep faith, immense patience, and quiet generosity. His public integrity is merely a reflection of his private character. He is the steady foundation upon which our family stands, teaching us daily that the greatest legacy is kindness.