Vice President Kashim Shettima on Saturday challenged political, traditional and community leaders in Plateau State to set aside differences and work together to build lasting peace, saying the state’s enormous agricultural, tourism and economic potential can only be realised in an atmosphere of unity.
Shettima spoke in Jos during the public presentation of the autobiography of former Plateau State Governor, SenatorJonah David Jang, Airman to Politics: My Life, held as part of activities marking the elder statesman’s 80th birthday.
The event drew prominent political leaders across party lines, including former President Goodluck Jonathan, Governor Caleb Mutfwang, National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, traditional rulers, religious leaders and other dignitaries.
Describing Jang as a leader whose life exemplifies sacrifice, courage and commitment to national unity, the Vice President urged younger Nigerians to reject inherited divisions and embrace reconciliation and dialogue.
“I challenge the elites of Plateau to rally together and bring enduring peace to the state. Plateau possesses enormous opportunities. With the right mix of leadership, innovation and unity, Plateau can become a model of national cohesion and prosperity,” Shettima said.
He added that Nigeria’s ethnic and cultural diversity should remain a source of strength rather than division.
Former President Jonathan described the celebration as a tribute to a life devoted to faith, leadership and public service, saying Jang’s autobiography would serve as an important historical record for future generations.
According to Jonathan, the memoir captures not only the former governor’s personal journey but also significant moments in Nigeria’s democratic evolution.
He described Jang as “positively stubborn” whenever he believed a decision was in the best interest of Plateau people, saying the quality reflected courage and principled leadership.
Governor Mutfwang paid glowing tribute to his predecessor, describing him as a father, mentor and statesman whose leadership had shaped generations of public servants in Plateau State.
He said Jang’s commitment to integrity and principled leadership inspired his own political journey and called for greater national recognition of both Jang and the late Chief Solomon Lar for their roles in Nigeria’s democratic struggle.
The governor also urged younger Nigerians to cultivate respect for elders and uphold the values of service, sacrifice and responsible leadership.
APC National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, described Jang as a man of integrity, deep faith and uncommon commitment to the welfare of his people, praying for continued strength and wisdom for the elder statesman.
In his remarks, Jang said he wrote the autobiography to preserve an accurate account of his life and public service for future generations and to correct misconceptions surrounding some of the decisions he took while in office.
He stressed that the book was not intended to settle scores but to present an honest account of his experiences in military service, politics and governance.
The former governor expressed gratitude to God for preserving his life to celebrate his 80th birthday and thanked the Plateau State Government, Governor Mutfwang and other well-wishers for organising the event.
He also acknowledged the roles played by former military President Ibrahim Babangida, former Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Goodluck Jonathan in different stages of his public service career.
Jang commended Jonathan for appointing a Grade A minister from Plateau State during his administration, approving the refund of funds spent by the state on federal roads and authorising the establishment of Operation Rainbow to strengthen security in the state.
Reflecting on his life’s journey, the elder statesman reminded Nigerians that public office, wealth and fame are temporary, while faith, character and service to humanity remain enduring legacies.
Reviewing the autobiography, broadcaster Seun Okinbaloye described it as “a man’s argument with history,” saying the memoir offers insights into leadership, identity, faith and nation-building through the eyes of one of Nigeria’s most experienced public servants.
