General Abdulsalami Abubakar
Took over after Abacha's death and oversaw the transition to the Fourth Republic.
About Nigeria's Heads of State
The President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria is both head of state and head of government, elected for a renewable four-year term. The President commands the armed forces, appoints ministers with Senate confirmation, signs bills into law and represents Nigeria in international affairs. Under the 1999 Constitution, executive power is vested in the President, exercised in accordance with the Constitution and laws made by the National Assembly.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did General Abdulsalami Abubakar serve as Head of State of Nigeria?
General Abdulsalami Abubakar served as Nigeria's head of government from June 1998 to May 1999.
When was General Abdulsalami Abubakar born?
General Abdulsalami Abubakar was born on 13 June 1942, which would make he about 84 years old today.
What state is General Abdulsalami Abubakar from?
General Abdulsalami Abubakar hails from Niger State in Nigeria's North-Central geopolitical zone.
What religion did General Abdulsalami Abubakar practise?
General Abdulsalami Abubakar is widely identified as a Muslim. Religion has often factored into Nigeria's leadership representation, though it is not a constitutional requirement for office.
What does the President of Nigeria do?
The President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria is both head of state and head of government. The President commands the armed forces, appoints ministers with Senate confirmation, signs bills into law, sets national policy and represents Nigeria internationally. Under the 1999 Constitution, the President serves a renewable four-year term.
Other Nigerian Presidents & Heads of State
- Alhaji Shehu Shagari
- Alhaji Umaru Musa Yar’Adua
- Bola Ahmed Tinubu
- Chief Ernest Shonekan
- Chief Olusegun Obasanjo
- Dr. Goodluck Jonathan
- General Ibrahim Babangida
- General Murtala Muhammed
- General Olusegun Obasanjo
- General Sani Abacha
- General Yakubu Gowon
- Major General Johnson Aguiyi-Ironsi
- Major General Muhammadu Buhari
- Muhammadu Buhari
- Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa
Government of Niger State
- Governor
- Mohammed Umar Bago
- House of Reps
- 12 members — listed on the Niger State page