Vice President Kashim Shettima has called for greater national unity as former Plateau State governor Jonah Jang marked his 80th birthday and unveiled his autobiography, describing the elder statesman as a father figure whose life reflects service, sacrifice and patriotism.
An official of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) sorts out Permanent Voters card (PVC) (Photo by PIUS UTOMI EKPEI / AFP)
Vice President Kashim Shettima has called on Nigerians to embrace unity, forgiveness and peaceful coexistence, saying the nation’s security, stability and prosperity depend on citizens placing the collective interest above ethnic, religious and political differences.
Speaking in Jos at the 80th birthday celebration of former Plateau State Governor, Jonah Jang, and the public presentation of his autobiography, From Airman to Politics: My Life, Shettima described the elder statesman as “a father to generations” whose life exemplifies service, sacrifice and patriotism.
He said Plateau’s experiences reflect Nigeria’s complexities, insisting that no criminal should be judged by ethnicity, religion or place of origin. The Vice President urged leaders and citizens alike to reject hatred, promote reconciliation and work together to build a peaceful nation, stressing that lasting peace remains the bedrock of development and national prosperity. He also conveyed President Bola Tinubu’s goodwill to the celebrant and reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening security and national cohesion.
Vice President Kashim Shettima
The event drew an array of prominent personalities, including former President Goodluck Jonathan, the 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 publication as more than a personal memoir, noting that it documents the journey of a soldier, administrator, politician and statesman while offering valuable lessons in leadership, resilience and public service for future generations.
Former President Goodluck Jonathan described Jang as a dependable partner during his administration, recalling that he worked closely with the former Plateau governor at 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 enrich Nigeria’s historical records by preserving the experiences and perspectives of one of the country’s foremost public servants.
Governor Mutfwang paid glowing 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, saying the elder statesman had continued to provide valuable counsel on governance. Mutfwang also urged younger Nigerians to cultivate the culture of honouring leaders and learning from their experiences, noting that Jang’s legacy transcends politics and is firmly rooted in service to humanity.
In his goodwill message, Yilwatda praised Jang as a man of integrity, wisdom and uncommon humanity whose leadership has inspired people across political divides. He said although they had not worked closely together, he had long admired the former governor’s character and leadership from afar, praying for God’s continued grace and strength upon him on behalf of the All Progressives Congress and its members nationwide.
Responding, Senator Jang expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for his goodwill message, Vice President Shettima for personally attending the celebration, Governor Mutfwang for hosting the event, and the many dignitaries who came to honour him.
He explained that although he never intended to write an autobiography, persistent encouragement from his son convinced him to document his life’s journey. According to him, the book was written not to settle scores but to present an honest account of his experiences, correct misconceptions surrounding his public service, and preserve lessons of faith, integrity, and selfless leadership for future generations.
The celebration concluded with the presentation of the autobiography and the cutting of Jang’s 80th birthday cake amid applause from guests and well-wishers.
