Nigerian billionaires’ absence at Aisha Buhari’s book launch raises eyebrows

Many prominent Nigerians were present on Thursday as Aisha Buhari, the first lady, launched her book — but the majority of billionaires invited were conspicuously absent.

Not only were the billionaires expected to grace the book launch, but they were also pencilled down as presenters at the event.

The launch of the biography titled, ‘Aisha Buhari: Being different’, held at the Banquet Hall, presidential villa, Abuja.

Bola Shagaya was in attendance but the likes of Aliko Dangote, Tony Elumelu, Abdulsamad Rabiu, Arthur Eze, Femi Otedola, Muhammadu Indimi, Jim Ovia, Kessington Adebutu, and Idahosa Wells Okunbo were a no-show.

Folorunsho Alakija, who recently dropped off the Forbes list of dollar billionaires, was listed as the special guest of honour — but she was also absent.

Rather than completely snub the event, the absent billionaires opted to send representatives to attend in their stead.

While the business icons failed to turn up, political heavyweights like Bola Tinubu, national leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), and Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo were in attendance.

Tinubu, who was the chairman of the occasion, described Aisha Buhari as a “voice of conscience” who has played a unifying role in the country.

He said: “Given the First Lady’s achievements, no one can reasonably question the role of a First Lady any longer. Remember there were those who argued that the constitution does not assign an official role to the First Lady. Because of Dr. Mrs. Aisha Buhari, their concerns have been forever laid to rest.

“Mrs. Buhari shows that a First Lady should not stand aloof and detached from what is happening in the country. Mrs. Buhari never shies from what she believes in. This makes her a reliable and true advisor to her beloved husband. No doubt that Mr. President’s administration has been enriched because of her active role and the teamwork that exists between husband and wife.”

Other bigwigs in attendance include Ovie Omo-Agege, depute senate president; Patience Jonathan, the former first lady; Sa’ad Abubakar II, the Sultan of Sokoto; and Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, the Ooni of Ife.

Amina Sambo, wife of former vice-president; Kayode Fayemi, Ekiti state governor; Simon Lalong, Plateau state governor; Mai Mala Buni, Yobe governor, among others, were also present at the book launch.