By Ibrahim Kegbegbe
Former Nigerian military President, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (retd.), has unveiled his long-anticipated memoir, A Journey in Service, at a high-profile event in Abuja, drawing eminent political and business figures from across Africa. The book launch, which took place on February 20, 2025, at the Congress Hall of the Transcorp Hilton Hotel, was also a platform for fundraising towards the establishment of the IBB Presidential Library.
The event was chaired by former President Olusegun Obasanjo, with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as the special guest of honor. Distinguished personalities in attendance included former Ghanaian President Nana Akufo-Addo, who delivered the keynote address, and Nigeria’s former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, who reviewed the book.
In an unprecedented show of support, the fundraising initiative accompanying the book launch generated a staggering N17.5 billion within hours. Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote, led the contributions with an N8 billion pledge, followed by Abdul Samad Rabiu’s N5 billion and General TY Danjuma’s N3 billion, among other donations from influential business magnates and political associates.
A Journey in Service provides a first-hand account of Babangida’s tenure as Nigeria’s military president from 1985 to 1993, offering insights into his leadership style, governance challenges, and critical decisions that shaped the nation’s history. The memoir revisits landmark policies such as the Structural Adjustment Program (SAP), the annulled June 12, 1993, presidential election, and his administration’s role in modernizing Nigeria’s infrastructure and economic framework.
Speaking at the event, Babangida described the book as a reflection of his service to Nigeria. “This memoir is not just a personal journey; it is a testament to the complexities of leadership and governance in our nation. I hope it serves as a resource for future generations of leaders and citizens alike,” he said.
Political analysts suggest that Babangida’s book will reignite discussions on Nigeria’s military rule and its transition to democracy. Scholars and historians have also hailed the publication as a crucial addition to Nigeria’s historical records, providing a rare glimpse into decision-making at the highest levels of government.
The book, now available in select bookstores, is priced at N40,000 for the paperback edition and N50,000 for the hardback. It is expected to become a bestseller, with keen interest from political observers, scholars, and history enthusiasts.
As Babangida’s legacy continues to be debated, A Journey in Service offers a rare opportunity for readers to hear directly from one of Nigeria’s most enigmatic leaders, shedding light on the intricacies of governance during a pivotal era in the nation’s history.
