The launch of former Military President Ibrahim Badamosi Babangida's autobiography, A Journey in Service, was a spectacular occasion that drew a distinguished gathering of political, business, and global leaders. The event, held at the Transcorp Hilton in Abuja, was characterized by heartfelt speeches, nostalgic reminiscences, and an overwhelming show of goodwill.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu headed the list of dignitaries, joined by his Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, and the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume. Former Presidents Goodluck Jonathan, Olusegun Obasanjo, Yakubu Gowon, and Abdulsalami Abubakar were also in attendance, along with former Vice Presidents Atiku Abubakar, Namadi Sambo, and Yemi Osinbajo.
International figures included former Ghanaian President Nana Akufo-Addo, who delivered the keynote address, and ex-Sierra Leonean President Julius Maada Wonie Bio. Also present were 2023 presidential candidates Peter Obi of the Labour Party and Rabiu Kwankwaso of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP).
The event was not only the unveiling of A Journey in Service but also a fundraiser for the Ibrahim Badamosi Babangida Library Project, which saw substantial financial backing from Nigeria’s elite. BUA Group Chairman Abdul Samad Rabiu led the way with a N5 billion donation, followed by General Theophilus Danjuma’s N3 billion contribution. Africa's wealthiest individual, Aliko Dangote, committed N8 billion over the next four years, further demonstrating his dedication to education and national progress.
Additional significant donations included N250 million from Senator Sani Musa, N50 million from Mustapha Chike-Obi on behalf of Fidelity Bank, and N100 million from his personal funds. Senate President Godswill Akpabio pledged N50 million, while Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin contributed N20 million. Senator Aliyu Wadada, standing in for Akpabio and Jibrin, promised an additional N10 million.
The Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), represented by its Chairman and Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, indicated it would announce its collective contribution in March. Billionaire philanthropists Tony Elumelu and Bola Shagaya also made pledges, though the exact amounts were not disclosed. Chief Arthur Eze symbolically contributed N500 million, while oil magnate Bola Alakija confirmed her support without revealing a specific figure.
The event’s atmosphere was one of both celebration and reflection, with speakers praising Babangida’s pivotal role in Nigeria's history. President Tinubu lauded the former leader for his "unmatched contributions to national unity and economic development," while Goodluck Jonathan described the autobiography as "a crucial historical record for future generations."
As the event came to a close, it was clear that A Journey in Service was more than just the release of a book—it was a reflection of Babangida’s lasting impact on Nigeria's political and economic evolution.