Nigeria News (Standard)
Abdulsalami Abubakar Explains Why He Handed Over Power to Civilian Government in 11 Months
Former Head of State says prompt transition in 1999 was to restore Nigeria’s global standing and prevent further instability
Former Head of State says prompt transition in 1999 was to restore Nigeria’s global standing and prevent further instability
Former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar (retired), has explained the reasons behind his decision to hand over power to a democratically elected government within just 11 months after assuming office. Speaking at an event on Sunday, 14 June, Abdulsalami stated that his swift transfer of authority in Abuja was aimed at ensuring political stability and returning Nigeria to democratic rule after years of military leadership.
Abdulsalami, who took over as Nigeria’s leader in June 1998 following the death of General Sani Abacha, said the country was under intense international scrutiny at the time. According to him, restoring civilian rule quickly was necessary to rebuild trust with foreign partners and address internal agitation for democracy. “Nigeria’s image was badly battered globally. The only way out was to return power back to the people,” Abdulsalami said while reflecting on his brief tenure.
He emphasised that Nigerians across different regions were demanding an end to military rule and a return to constitutional governance. The retired general added that prolonging military administration would have deepened political tension and risked further isolation from the international community. “We listened to the yearnings of Nigerians,” he noted.
Abdulsalami also recalled how his administration put together a transition timetable that included the drafting of a new constitution, formation of political parties, and conduct of general elections. He stressed that adherence to this process culminated in the swearing-in of President Olusegun Obasanjo on 29 May 1999, marking Nigeria’s Fourth Republic.
Political analysts say Abdulsalami’s decision helped pave the way for over two decades of uninterrupted civilian governance in Nigeria. While some critics had initially questioned the sincerity of the transition programme, subsequent events have highlighted its significance for national unity.
The former leader urged current officeholders to always prioritise national interest above personal ambition. “History will always judge us by our actions towards our country,” he concluded.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Ocheme Secures Knockout Victory as Adeshina Suffers Defeat at PFL Africa Warri Showdown
Historic mixed martial arts event in Delta State sees local fighters deliver dramatic finishes and mark new milestone for Nigerian combat sports
Historic mixed martial arts event in Delta State sees local fighters deliver dramatic finishes and mark new milestone for Nigerian combat sports
A night of high drama unfolded in Warri, Delta State on Sunday as Ocheme delivered a stunning knockout victory while Adeshina was defeated in a landmark evening for Professional Fighters League (PFL) Africa. The event, which drew significant attention to the burgeoning mixed martial arts scene in Nigeria, showcased both triumph and heartbreak for homegrown talent.
The main card featured Ocheme’s emphatic finish that sent the crowd into wild celebration, underscoring the growing profile of Nigerian fighters on the continental stage. In contrast, Adeshina’s defeat came after a hard-fought contest, highlighting the fierce level of competition at this historic event. Both bouts headlined a packed schedule that saw athletes from across Africa vie for supremacy and recognition.
PFL Africa’s decision to bring its showcase to Warri marks a significant milestone for combat sports in Nigeria, reflecting increased investment and fan interest across the South-South region. The league’s expansion into Africa is seen as an opportunity for local athletes to compete at the highest levels without leaving the continent.
Organisers described the Warri event as a breakthrough moment for sports development in Delta State. Officials expressed optimism that such high-profile competitions would attract more youth participation and inspire future champions. However, some observers noted the need for sustained support from government and private sector stakeholders to ensure continued growth of the sport.
With PFL Africa promising more events across major Nigerian cities, attention now shifts to how local fighters will build on these performances. The success of Ocheme’s knockout win is expected to inspire aspiring athletes nationwide, while Adeshina’s experience serves as a reminder of the challenges ahead in elite-level competition.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Abdulsalami Abubakar Explains Why He Transferred Power to Civilian Government in Less Than One Year
Former Head of State says Nigeria needed stability after years of military rule; transition paved way for Fourth Republic
Former Head of State says Nigeria needed stability after years of military rule; transition paved way for Fourth Republic
Former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar (rtd), has disclosed the reason behind his decision to hand over power to a democratically-elected government within just eleven months in office. Speaking in Abuja on Sunday, Abdulsalami said his main motivation was to restore stability and set Nigeria on the path of democracy after prolonged military rule.
Abdulsalami, who took office following the death of General Sani Abacha in June 1998, oversaw a rapid transition process that culminated in the swearing-in of President Olusegun Obasanjo on 29 May 1999. The former leader explained that Nigeria was at a crossroads at the time, and there was urgent need to end military intervention in governance.
He noted that Nigerians had become weary of repeated coups and instability, and that confidence in the country’s leadership had eroded. “I realised that the nation needed healing and a sense of direction. We had spent too long under military regimes, and it was clear that only a return to civilian rule would restore hope,” Abdulsalami said during an interactive session.
The retired general added that his administration’s swift timetable for elections was deliberate, as he wanted to avoid any suspicion or accusations of self-perpetuation. He emphasised that he did not want to be seen as clinging to power or derailing the country’s democratic aspirations. Abdulsalami’s move marked the beginning of Nigeria’s Fourth Republic and brought an end to over fifteen years of successive military administrations.
Political observers credit Abdulsalami’s decision with setting a precedent for peaceful transitions in Nigeria’s recent history. The restoration of democracy in 1999 paved the way for continuous civilian governance, with subsequent elections held every four years.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Warri Leaders Urge Protesters to Vacate Oil Facilities After Tinubu’s Intervention
Ijaw and Urhobo leaders in Delta State call for end to occupation of oil sites, citing President Tinubu’s appeal
Ijaw and Urhobo leaders in Delta State call for end to occupation of oil sites, citing President Tinubu’s appeal
Ijaw and Urhobo community leaders in Warri Federal Constituency, Delta State, have called on protesters occupying oil installations to withdraw immediately, following President Bola Tinubu’s intervention on the matter. The appeal was made on Sunday as tensions persisted around key oil facilities in the region.
The protest, which saw youths and community members blocking access to several oil installations in Warri South-West Local Government Area, began last week over demands for improved development and increased resource control. Following days of disruption to oil production activities, local leaders said they were heeding President Tinubu’s recent directive for dialogue and calm in the area.
The occupation of oil facilities in Warri has raised significant concerns about Nigeria’s crude output and potential revenue losses, especially at a time when the country is grappling with foreign exchange shortages and high inflation. Delta State plays a critical role in the nation’s oil sector, contributing a substantial share of daily output.
Speaking at a meeting attended by community representatives and security officials, Ijaw and Urhobo leaders stressed that while their demands remain valid, they are willing to give federal authorities more time to address grievances. “We want peace so that negotiations can continue without disrupting national assets,” one leader said during the session.
Security agencies have maintained a visible presence around affected sites but reported no major clashes as at Sunday. Stakeholders are expected to reconvene next week for further talks with government officials and oil company representatives as efforts continue towards a peaceful resolution.
Ocheme Secures Knockout Victory as Adeshina Suffers Defeat at PFL Africa Warri Showdown
No Final Score Reported as African Fans Rally Behind Their Teams at the World Cup
Abdulsalami Abubakar Explains Why He Transferred Power to Civilian Government in Less Than One Year
Warri Leaders Urge Protesters to Vacate Oil Facilities After Tinubu’s Intervention
Morocco Outclass Brazil as Qatar Make World Cup History on Day 3 of 2026 FIFA World Cup
Qatar Secure Historic First World Cup Point After Draw With Switzerland in Zurich
Report: Mourinho Eyes Victor Osimhen as Real Madrid Transfer Target
Nine States Conclude Hajj 2026 Return Airlift, Pilgrims Arrive Safely Across Nigeria
‘Brazil No Longer Intimidates’ — Ex-Chelsea Star Slams Selecao After Morocco Draw
Abdulsalami Abubakar Explains Why He Handed Over Power to Civilian Government in 11 Months
Moniepoint Graduates Second DreamDevs Cohort in Lagos to Strengthen Nigeria’s Engineering Workforce
FG Launches $500m Abuja Formula 1 Bid, Targets Africa’s First Grand Prix Since 1993
Gọvanmenti Nigeria Kwupụtara 53 Orù Anyanwụ Maka Ike Ọhụrụ N’iru Afọ 2050
Fresh Romance Rumours Trail Lando Norris as Alix Earle Sparks Drama in Monaco
Why More Nigerians Are Searching for Casino Bonuses—and What You Should Know Before Claiming
Environment Minister Urges Increased Investment in Nigeria’s Green Economy Ahead of Global Climate Summit
Ụlọ Ọrụ Nigeria Kwupụtara Nsogbu Nchekwa na Ụtụ Isi N’agbanyeghị Ịrị Elu Obi Ike Ahịa
Somali Referee Omar Artan Blocked From US World Cup Over Visa Row, Misses Dream Debut
Federal Government Launches Mining Grants for Research and Exploration Across Nigeria
