Abubakar laid foundation for Nigeria’s democratic stability, Thabo Mbeki
By Johnbosco Agbakwuru, Abuja
Former South African President Thabo Mbeki on Saturday hailed former Nigerian Head of State General Abdulsalami Abubakar for laying the foundation for Nigeria’s democratic stability through his historic transition programme that ended military rule in 1999.
Mbeki said Abdulsalami’s brief but consequential tenure as head of state between 1998 and 1999 not only restored democratic governance in Nigeria but also established a framework that has sustained civilian rule and peaceful transfers of power for more than two decades.
The former South African leader spoke in a keynote address delivered at the public presentation of three books in honour of Abdulsalami Abubakar as part of activities marking the elder statesman’s 84th birthday.
Mbeki, who was unable to attend physically due to a family bereavement, described Abdulsalami as one of Africa’s foremost statesmen whose contributions to democratic governance, peacebuilding and constitutional rule continue to resonate across the continent.
According to him, Abdulsalami demonstrated uncommon patriotism and statesmanship by choosing national interest over personal power at a critical moment in Nigeria’s history following the death of General Sani Abacha in 1998.
“His tenure is significant not only for its brevity but also for the lasting impact it created in the history of democratic transition in Africa. He swiftly paved the way towards democratic governance in Nigeria and laid the foundation for subsequent peaceful transfers of power, for which not only Nigerians but the rest of us Africans are immensely proud,” Mbeki said.
He noted that upon assuming office, Abdulsalami recognised the urgent need to restore political stability and public confidence in governance, prompting him to commit to a short transition programme that culminated in the return to civilian rule in May 1999.
Mbeki said the former military leader resisted the allure of power and instead focused on creating the constitutional and institutional frameworks necessary for democratic governance.
“He placed the interests of his country first and overcame the temptation and allure of power. His administration immediately set about providing the constitutional and electoral reforms necessary for free and fair elections and democratic governance,” he stated.
The South African statesman added that the institutions and democratic structures established during Abdulsalami’s administration remain the bedrock upon which Nigeria’s Fourth Republic has been built.
“The constitutional framework and electoral institutions that he helped to create still serve as a foundation of Nigeria’s democracy. He laid the groundwork for democratic values anchored on credible elections, respect for constitutional order and adherence to democratic principles,” Mbeki said.
Beyond Nigeria, Mbeki highlighted Abdulsalami’s extensive contributions to peacebuilding and conflict resolution across Africa, describing him as one of the continent’s most respected mediators.
He recalled that the former Nigerian leader played prominent roles in peace negotiations, election observation missions and reconciliation efforts in Liberia, Sierra Leone, Sudan, South Sudan, Niger and The Gambia.
Mbeki said he had the privilege of working closely with Abdulsalami under the auspices of the African Union on efforts aimed at promoting peace, stability and democratic governance in Sudan and South Sudan.
According to him, Abdulsalami’s interventions in conflict situations across the continent earned him international respect as a trusted voice for peace and dialogue.
“He worked closely with regional and continental organisations to foster dialogue and stability. Several countries and international bodies sought his wisdom and experience in resolving conflicts and strengthening democratic institutions,” he noted.
The former South African president said Africa’s democratic future depends on leaders who are willing to emulate Abdulsalami’s example by strengthening institutions, respecting constitutional processes and placing national interest above personal ambition.
While acknowledging that many African countries continue to face challenges ranging from electoral disputes and governance deficits to violent conflicts and institutional weaknesses, Mbeki said the continent has also recorded notable successes in democratic consolidation.
He cited countries such as South Africa, Ghana, Senegal, Liberia and Sierra Leone as examples of democratic progress and post-conflict recovery.
Mbeki stressed that democracy, peace and security remain indispensable to Africa’s development aspirations, warning that sustainable progress would remain elusive without accountable governance and strong institutions.
“The duty of advancing democratic governance and building peace and security in Africa must be a generational endeavour. We must educate and inspire our young people to embrace leadership founded on service, integrity and commitment to the common good,” he said.
He also commended the authors of the three books launched in honour of Abdulsalami, saying scholarly works are vital for preserving history and providing future generations with lessons on leadership and nation-building.
Mbeki described the celebrant as “an eminent African statesman, a principled soldier and a man for all seasons” whose legacy would continue to inspire leaders across the continent.
“In celebrating General Abdulsalami Abubakar, we affirm that his contributions to democracy and peace in Africa will continue to inspire future generations. His selfless service, commitment to national unity and exemplary leadership remain a model for others to follow,” he said.
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