Former Nigerian Military President, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (IBB), officially launched his memoir, ‘A Journey in Service’, in Abuja on Thursday, drawing an elite gathering of past and present leaders who reflected on his legacy and the state of democracy in West Africa.
The event, held at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel, attracted former presidents, military leaders, and statesmen from Nigeria and beyond.
Discussions ranged from Babangida’s contributions to Nigeria’s political history to concerns over the resurgence of military coups in the region.
In his keynote address, former Ghanaian President Nana Akufo-Addo emphasised the importance of multi-party democracy in Africa’s development.
He warned against the growing wave of military takeovers, calling them a setback to democratic progress.
“Multiple parties are good for our continent,” Akufo-Addo said, urging leaders to protect democratic institutions.
Former Nigerian Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon (rtd), lauded Babangida’s rise from aide-de-camp (ADC) to head of state, describing him as a “boss of bosses.”
Gowon also expressed gratitude for Babangida’s decision to restore his rank of General after it was stripped following the 1976 coup.
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“Thank you for restoring my rank,” Gowon said, reflecting on how Babangida’s leadership impacted his life.
General Abdulsalami Abubakar, another former military president, shared personal anecdotes about his long-standing relationship with Babangida, which spans over 80 years.
He recalled a childhood prophecy that foretold Babangida’s rise to power and commended him for documenting his life’s journey.
“Your memoir will enrich the country,” Abdulsalami remarked.
Former President Goodluck Jonathan described Babangida as one of Nigeria’s most charismatic leaders and called for the creation of presidential libraries to preserve the country’s political history.
“IBB brought us here today to celebrate his book and library. His home has become somewhat of a pilgrimage site,” Jonathan noted.
Representing former President Muhammadu Buhari, ex-Minister of Transportation Jaji Sambo delivered a congratulatory message, expressing hope that Babangida would continue offering valuable counsel to Nigeria’s leadership.
