Depression to Destiny: The Abdulsalami Story

General Abdulsalami Abubakar's ascent to Nigeria's head of state was an unexpected turn of events, directly linked to a personal struggle with depression. His journey began with an enlistment in the newly formed Nigerian Air Force in 1963, leading to training in Germany. However, a bout of depression grounded him, preventing him from completing the final stages of pilot training and forcing him to withdraw.

This setback, however, opened a different path. Abubakar returned to Nigeria and transferred to the Nigerian Army, the branch that historically produced the nation's military leaders. His military career eventually led him to the highest office when he succeeded General Sani Abacha, who died suddenly on June 8, 1998. The Provisional Ruling Council swiftly chose Abubakar as his successor.

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As a result of my state of mind, I was grounded. I couldn’t continue with my training as an Air Force pilot. It was part of the weeding process of the academy. Not all students who started the training usually completed it. For example, if a trainee pilot was not able to log in 15 hours in the small two-propeller aircraft, he would not continue the training. He was weeded out and sent to another arm of the Air Force such as engineering, logistics and ordnance.

Abubakar's tenure was marked by a rapid transition to civilian rule, culminating in the establishment of the Fourth Republic in May 1999. This handover initiated Nigeria's longest period of continuous democracy, now spanning 27 years, a significant achievement compared to previous democratic spells.

On his 84th birthday, Abubakar launched his autobiography, 'Call of Duty.' The book chronicles his life, from his birth in Minna to his military service and family. The narrative highlights the pivotal role of his earlier depression, which he views as a divine intervention that redirected his life towards a destiny of leadership, ultimately earning him the moniker 'Mai Nigeria' (He Who is Nigeria).

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Looking back, I would say without any doubt that God had a hand in everything. It was not entirely my decision. I went for Air Force training only