Babangida Inaugurates IBB Presidential Library, Praises Abdul Samad Rabiu’s Support

Former Nigerian military ruler General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (rtd.) on Thursday officially launched Nigeria’s second presidential library, the IBB Presidential Library, during the unveiling of his autobiography, A Journey in Service, in Abuja.

The high-profile event at the Congress Hall of the Transcorp Hilton served as both a book launch and a fundraising initiative for the library project, raising a remarkable N11.5 billion from Nigeria’s top political and business figures.

The largest single pledge came from billionaire industrialist Abdul Samad Rabiu, who donated N5 billion.

General TY Danjuma (rtd.) followed with N3 billion, while Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote, pledged N2 billion, with an additional N2 billion commitment every three years for a total of N8 billion.

Other key donations:

• Prince Arthur Eze – N500 million
• Senate President Godswill Akpabio – N50 million
• Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau – N20 million
• Mustapha Chike Obi – N100 million
• Fidelity Bank – N50 million

A visibly moved General Babangida gave special recognition to Abdul Samad Rabiu, describing him as his “son” and acknowledging his steadfast support since the project's inception.

Through the Abdul Samad Rabiu Africa Initiative (ASR Africa), Rabiu has allocated over $300 million toward social development, healthcare, and education across Africa.

“Leadership is not only about the present; it is about the legacy we build and the history we preserve. Supporting this library is an investment in Nigeria’s history and future generations.” – Abdul Samad Rabiu

The IBB Presidential Library is envisioned as a national institution, preserving Nigeria’s political, military, and artistic heritage, particularly documenting leadership during Babangida’s tenure.
It follows the precedent set by the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library in Abeokuta.

Former Ghanaian President Nana Akufo-Addo delivered the keynote address, while former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo chaired the event.

Other notable attendees included:

• Former Nigerian Presidents Goodluck Jonathan, General Yakubu Gowon, and General Abdulsalami Abubakar (with his wife)
• Former Sierra Leonean President Ernest Bai Koroma
• President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who highlighted IBB’s impact on Nigeria’s leadership evolution

Former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo provided an in-depth review of Babangida’s autobiography, particularly addressing the controversial annulment of the June 12, 1993 election.