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Sierra Leone’s President Julius Maada Bio has paid tribute to former Nigerian Head of State General Abdulsalami Abubakar at the launch of his autobiography and 84th birthday celebration.
The event took place on Saturday at the Aso Rock Presidential Villa in Abuja.
President Bio, who also serves as Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, was the Guest of Honour at the gathering of African leaders, diplomats and statesmen.
Reflecting on General Abdulsalami’s decision to return Nigeria to civilian rule, President Bio drew parallels with his own democratic transition in Sierra Leone.
“Such courage requires a true statesman who places country above self-interest,” President Bio said. “Within three months, I handed over power. I chose nation over personal ambition and democracy over self-interest.”
The Sierra Leonean leader also recalled Nigeria’s role through ECOMOG in restoring peace and democracy in Sierra Leone.
“Sierra Leone remembers, Sierra Leone appreciates, and Sierra Leone is grateful,” he said.
President Bio described General Abdulsalami as a distinguished statesman whose humility and service continue to inspire leaders across Africa.
“Authority is temporary, but legacy is permanent,” he remarked.
On behalf of ECOWAS and the people of Sierra Leone, President Bio wished the former Nigerian leader continued good health and wisdom.
“ECOWAS salutes you, Africa honours you, and our continent is better because you served,” he concluded.
The event also featured goodwill messages from former Nigerian Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Goodluck Jonathan, former South African President Thabo Mbeki, and Nigeria’s Vice President Kashim Shettima.
General Abdulsalami Abubakar thanked President Bio for serving as Guest of Honour.
