BY SOLOMON OKPO
Vice President Kashim Shettima has described the autobiography of the former Head of State, Yakubu Gowon, as a vital national document capable of guiding Nigeria toward unity, responsible leadership, and national rebirth.
Representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the public presentation of Gowon’s autobiography titled “My Life of Duty and Allegiance” on Tuesday in Abuja, Shettima said the memoir transcends ordinary storytelling and should be regarded as a “civic inheritance” for all Nigerians.
The event, held at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre, attracted prominent political leaders, traditional rulers, religious figures, governors, ministers, and elder statesmen from across the country.
Among dignitaries present were former President Goodluck Jonathan, former Head of State Abdulsalami Abubakar, the Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar, and former First Lady Patience Jonathan.
Speaking during the unveiling, Shettima stressed that leaders who witnessed and managed some of Nigeria’s most defining historical moments still possess lessons that remain relevant to the nation’s current challenges.
According to him, Nigeria risks repeating past mistakes if younger generations fail to learn from the experiences, sacrifices, and decisions of past leaders.
He urged Nigerians, particularly young people, to study Gowon’s memoir carefully, noting that the book offers valuable insights into patriotism, leadership, national service, and conflict management.
The Vice President maintained that the autobiography serves as both a reflection on Nigeria’s political journey and a call for national unity at a time when the country faces growing political, ethnic, and social divisions.
The presentation also sparked conversations among participants on whether the experiences documented by past leaders could help bridge Nigeria’s present divisions and inspire a stronger sense of national identity.
