A moving narrative from Nigerian President Bola Tinubu’s experience has surfaced, showcasing a moment of unexpected bravery and the importance of a single act of recognition.
During former Nigerian military president Ibrahim Babandiga’s book launch in Abuja on Thursday, President Tinubu shared a story about a trying period following their victory when the inauguration was constantly postponed.
The president described the increasing unease among elected officials, which culminated in a summons to Abuja and a subsequent meeting at the International Conference Centre.
“I was not expecting to make any comment,” he said. “I was just listening in my radical manner, wondering if this man would ever inaugurate us.”
The situation worsened when the elected officials returned to their hotel and found themselves locked out, with no access to their rooms. After being asked by Dele Cole to make a statement, the President decided to address the then-military President Babangida personally.
“I confronted you,” President Tinubu recalled, “that you had an opportunity to make history that day, and you did not take it.” Why not inaugurate us? Why are you calling us back and postponing the inauguration?”
Colleagues were concerned about the ramifications of the president’s direct challenge. “They all thought I would end up in jail,” he said.
However, Babangida’s response was far from what anyone had imagined. Instead of rage or condemnation, President Tinubu received a surprise display of respect.
“You came to me at the end of the remark,” the president recalled, “you shook my hand and said, ‘You are courageous.'”
President Tinubu underlined that this seemingly little action had a deep and long-term impact.
“That is a huge inspiration in my life,” the president added.
The story provided a compelling example of the value of courage and the long-term impact of positive reinforcement, even in the face of political turmoil.
