Former Military President, General Ibrahim Babangida (retd.), has raised over ₦16 billion from the launch of his autobiography and the presentation of his presidential library.
The event, which took place at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja, on Thursday, drew Nigeria’s business elite, political leaders, and dignitaries from across Africa.
Babangida’s autobiography, titled “A Journey in Service,” was officially presented to the public alongside the unveiling of plans for his presidential library. The fundraiser saw massive financial support, primarily from Nigeria’s top businessmen and associates of the former leader.
Dangote, Rabiu, Danjuma Lead Donations
Nigeria’s richest man and founder of Dangote Group of Companies, Aliko Dangote, made the highest donation, pledging ₦8 billion to the project. He announced that his contribution would be spread over four years, donating ₦2 billion annually. He also promised to continue supporting the initiative if it extended beyond the planned time frame.
Founder of BUA Group, Abdulsamad Rabiu, followed closely with a ₦5 billion donation, while business mogul and former Defense Minister, Theophilus Danjuma, contributed ₦3 billion.
Other prominent donors included: Businessman Arthur Eze – ₦500 million, Senator Sani Musa – ₦250 million, Senate President Godswill Akpabio – ₦50 million, Deputy Senate President – ₦20 million and Senator Aliyu Wadada – ₦10 million
Notably, businesswoman and philanthropist Folorunsho Alakija also made a donation, but the amount was not publicly disclosed.
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Tinubu, Ex-Presidents, and African Leaders Attend
The event was attended by President Bola Tinubu, who led a delegation of past Nigerian leaders, including former Presidents Goodluck Jonathan, Yakubu Gowon, and Abdulsalami Abubakar.
Other high-profile attendees included: former Vice Presidents Atiku Abubakar, Namadi Sambo, and Yemi Osinbajo; Labour Party’s 2023 Presidential Candidate, Peter Obi; NNPP’s Presidential Candidate, Rabiu Kwankwaso, governors, industrialists, technocrats, and traditional rulers
The keynote address was delivered by former Ghanaian President, Nana Akufo-Addo, while former Sierra Leonean President, Ernest Koroma, also graced the occasion.
Babangida’s Vision for the Presidential Library
Speaking at the event, Babangida emphasized the importance of preserving Nigeria’s history and leadership experiences for future generations. He described his presidential library as a “legacy project” aimed at documenting and sharing knowledge about Nigeria’s governance.
“I am overwhelmed by the generosity of those who believe in this vision. This project is not just about me but about Nigeria’s history and the lessons future leaders must learn,” Babangida stated.
With over ₦16 billion raised, the project is set to become one of the most significant presidential libraries in Africa.