ABUJA: Former military president, General Ibrahim Babangida (retd.), has amassed nearly N17 billion in donations following the release of his autobiography, A Journey in Service. The book, which offers an insight into his life and political career, was officially launched in Abuja on Thursday.
The substantial financial support primarily came from Nigeria’s business elite, with the country’s wealthiest individuals pledging significant sums to the former leader. Leading the donations was Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote, who committed a generous N8 billion to the project. The donation is structured as N2 billion per year over a span of four years.
Billionaire businessman Abdulsamad Rabiu also made a notable contribution, launching the book with a N5 billion donation. Several other prominent figures from Nigeria’s business and political circles also offered donations, although the exact amounts from individuals such as Folorunsho Alakija were not disclosed.
In the book, Babangida reflects on his presidency and the landmark events that shaped his time in power. One of the most significant admissions in the autobiography is his acknowledgment that the late Chief MKO Abiola had indeed won the controversial June 12, 1993 presidential election.
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Babangida, who annulled the election, called it one of the most difficult decisions of his life. This revelation sheds new light on a critical moment in Nigeria’s democratic history, offering a personal perspective on the decision that has remained a contentious issue for decades.
The book’s release and the resulting donations highlight not only the enduring influence of Babangida in Nigerian politics but also the significant backing he continues to enjoy from some of the country’s most powerful business figures.
