General Abdulsalami Abubakar was born on June 13, 1942, in Minna, Niger State, Nigeria. He belongs to the Gwari ethnic group. He attended Native Authority Primary School in Minna and later proceeded to Government College, Bida.
After his early education, he pursued further studies at the Kaduna Technical College before joining the Nigerian Air Force as a cadet in 1963. However, he later transferred to the Nigerian Army in 1966.
Military Career
Abdulsalami Abubakar had a distinguished career in the Nigerian Army, serving in various capacities, including:
- Participation in the Nigerian Civil War (1967-1970)
- Commanding several military units and formations
- Serving as Chief of Defense Staff under General Sani Abacha
Following General Sani Abacha’s sudden death on June 8, 1998, Abubakar was appointed Head of State and Commander-in-Chief of the Nigerian Armed Forces.
Political Leadership and Transition to Democracy
As Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar oversaw Nigeria’s transition from military to civilian rule. Some key achievements of his short tenure include:
- Drafting a new constitution (1999 Constitution of Nigeria)
- Organizing democratic elections within a short 11-month period
- Handover of power to Olusegun Obasanjo on May 29, 1999, marking the beginning of Nigeria’s Fourth Republic
Family and Personal Life
Abdulsalami Abubakar is married to Fati Abubakar, who served as First Lady of Nigeria (1998-1999). They have children together, although their names are not widely publicized.
Post-Military Life and Influence
After retiring, Abubakar became involved in various peacekeeping and diplomatic efforts in Africa. He has played a role in resolving conflicts in countries like:
- Liberia
- Sierra Leone
- Sudan
- Mali
He has also served as an elder statesman and advisor on governance and democracy in Nigeria.
Legacy
General Abdulsalami Abubakar is widely respected for peacefully transitioning Nigeria to democracy, a legacy that distinguishes him from other military rulers. His leadership remains a benchmark for non-violent political transitions in Africa.
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