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Vice President Kashim Shettima has urged Nigerians to embrace unity, forgiveness and peaceful coexistence, saying the country’s security, stability and prosperity depend on citizens placing the national interest above ethnic, religious and political differences.
Shettima made the appeal in Jos during the 80th birthday celebration of former Plateau State Governor, Jonah Jang, and the public presentation of his autobiography, From Airman to Politics: My Life.
Describing Jang as “a father to generations”, the Vice President said the former governor’s life reflected service, sacrifice and patriotism.
He noted that Plateau State’s history mirrors Nigeria’s diversity and complexities, stressing that criminality should never be associated with ethnicity, religion or place of origin.
Shettima urged leaders and citizens to reject hatred, promote reconciliation and work together to build a peaceful nation, emphasising that lasting peace remains the foundation for development and national prosperity.
He also conveyed President Bola Tinubu’s goodwill message to Jang and reaffirmed the Nigerian Government’s commitment to strengthening security and national cohesion.
The event attracted prominent personalities, including former President Goodluck Jonathan, National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Nentawe Yilwatda, Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang, traditional rulers, religious leaders, political associates and family members.
A major highlight of the ceremony was the review of Jang’s autobiography by Channels Television’s Seun Akinbaloye, who described the book as more than a personal memoir, saying it chronicles the journey of a soldier, administrator, politician and statesman while offering lessons in leadership, resilience and public service.
Former President Goodluck Jonathan described Jang as a dependable ally during his administration, recalling that the former Plateau governor played a significant role during a critical period in Nigeria’s democratic journey.
Jonathan said Jang distinguished himself through discipline, conviction and commitment to national unity, adding that the autobiography would preserve valuable historical accounts for future generations.
Governor Caleb Mutfwang also paid tribute to his predecessor, describing him as a mentor, father figure and exemplary leader whose contributions to Plateau State remain enduring.
He credited Jang with shaping his understanding of leadership and urged younger Nigerians to cultivate the culture of honouring leaders and learning from their experiences.
APC National Chairman Nentawe Yilwatda praised Jang’s integrity, wisdom and humanity, saying his leadership had inspired people across political divides.
Responding, Senator Jang thanked President Tinubu for his goodwill message, Vice President Shettima for attending the celebration, Governor Mutfwang for hosting the event and other dignitaries for honouring him.
Jang said he initially had no intention of writing an autobiography but was persuaded by his son to document his life’s journey.
According to him, the book was written to present an honest account of his experiences, correct misconceptions about his public service and preserve lessons of faith, integrity and selfless leadership for future generations.
The celebration ended with the public presentation of the autobiography and the cutting of Jang’s 80th birthday cake.
