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 putting the collective interest above ethnic, religious and political differences.
Shettima made the call in Jos, Plateau State, during the 80th birthday celebration of former Plateau State Governor, Senator Jonah Jang, and the public presentation of his autobiography, From Airman to Politics: My Life.
The Vice President described Jang as “a father to generations,” noting that his life and career reflected years of service, sacrifice, discipline and patriotism.
According to him, the experiences of Plateau State mirror the broader complexities of Nigeria, making it necessary for citizens to reject divisions and work towards building a more united and peaceful country.
Shettima stressed that no criminal should be judged based on ethnicity, religion or place of origin, urging Nigerians to avoid hatred and promote reconciliation irrespective of their differences.
He said lasting peace remained the foundation for meaningful development and national prosperity, while calling on leaders and citizens to work together to strengthen national cohesion and security.
The Vice President also conveyed the goodwill of President Bola Tinubu to the former governor and reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to improving security and fostering unity across the country.
The ceremony attracted prominent Nigerians, 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, family members and other dignitaries.
A major highlight of the event was the presentation and review of Jang’s autobiography, which chronicles his journey from military service to public administration and politics.
The reviewer, Seun Akinbaloye, described the book as more than a personal memoir, saying it captures the experiences of a soldier, administrator, politician and statesman while offering important lessons on leadership, resilience and public service.
Former President Goodluck Jonathan, in his remarks, described Jang as a dependable partner during his administration, recalling the role the former Plateau governor played during a critical period in Nigeria’s democratic development.
Jonathan said Jang distinguished himself through discipline, strong convictions and commitment to national unity. He added that the autobiography would contribute to Nigeria’s historical records by preserving the experiences and perspectives of an important public servant.
Governor Caleb Mutfwang also paid tribute to his predecessor, describing Jang as a mentor, father figure and exemplary leader whose contributions to Plateau State remain significant.
Mutfwang said Jang had played an important role in shaping his understanding of leadership and governance, adding that the former governor had continued to offer him valuable advice and guidance.
The governor encouraged younger Nigerians to develop the culture of honouring those who have served the country and learning from their experiences, noting that Jang’s legacy goes beyond politics and is deeply rooted in service to humanity.
In his goodwill message, APC National Chairman Nentawe Yilwatda described Jang as a man of integrity, wisdom and uncommon humanity whose leadership had earned him respect across political divides.
Yilwatda said that although he had not worked closely with the former governor, he had followed his leadership and admired his character from afar. He prayed for God’s continued grace, strength and good health for the former governor on behalf of the APC and its members across the country.
Responding to the tributes, Senator Jonah Jang expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for his goodwill message, Vice President Shettima for attending the celebration, Governor Mutfwang for hosting the event and all the dignitaries who gathered to celebrate with him.
Jang revealed that he initially had no plans to write an autobiography but was eventually persuaded by his son to document his life and experiences.
He explained that the book was not written to settle political scores but to provide an honest account of his journey, correct misconceptions about his years in public service and preserve valuable lessons on faith, integrity and selfless leadership for future generations.
The celebration ended with the formal presentation of the autobiography and the cutting of Senator Jonah Jang’s 80th birthday cake, amid applause and goodwill from family members, friends, political associates and other well-wishers.
