Shettima, Jonathan hail Jonah Jang at 80

Vice President Kashim Shettima, former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, and the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda today paid glowing tributes to former Plateau State Governor and elder statesman, Senator Jonah David Jang, during the public presentation of his autobiography, “Airman to Politics: My Life,” held as part of activities marking his 80th birthday celebration in Jos.

The event attracted an array of distinguished personalities, including political leaders from across party lines, traditional rulers, clergy, diplomats, captains of industry, and eminent Nigerians, who gathered to celebrate Senator Jang’s remarkable journey in military service, politics, and public life, while reflecting on his enduring contributions to Plateau State, the Middle Belt, and Nigeria as a whole.

Vice President Kashim Shettima described Senator Jang as a leader whose life has been defined by sacrifice, courage, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to peace and national unity.

He commended the former governor for consistently choosing reconciliation over conflict and urged the younger generation to reject inherited grievances in favour of forgiveness, dialogue, and peaceful coexistence.

The Vice President called on Plateau’s political, traditional, and community leaders to unite in building lasting peace and unlocking the state’s vast agricultural, tourism, and economic potential.

“I challenge the elites of Plateau, all seated here, 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,” he stated.

Senator Shettima further emphasized that Nigeria’s diversity should remain a source of strength rather than division, noting the rich historical and cultural bonds shared by the country’s various ethnic nationalities.

In a significant gesture, the Vice President announced the appointment of Hon. Yakubu David Jang as Senior Special Assistant to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, describing it as a recognition of competence and service.

In his address, former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan described the occasion as a celebration of a life dedicated to faith, service, leadership, and sacrifice.

He noted that Senator Jang’s autobiography goes beyond a personal memoir, serving as an important contribution to Nigeria’s political history by documenting the experiences, convictions, and values that shaped one of the nation’s respected public servants.

Jonathan recalled working closely with Senator Jang during his administration and described him as a dependable ally who remained committed to the development of Plateau State and the unity of Nigeria despite numerous national challenges.

“Senator Jang is positively stubborn whenever he believes a decision is in the best interest of Plateau people,” Jonathan remarked, describing the attribute as evidence of principled and courageous leadership.

Paying tribute to his predecessor, Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang described Senator Jang as a father, mentor, and exemplary statesman whose leadership significantly influenced his own political journey.

The Governor revealed that long before he ventured into politics, Senator Jang had become a model of principled leadership for him, adding that a private leadership conversation with the elder statesman in 2016 helped shape his philosophy of governance.

Governor Mutfwang praised Senator Jang’s enduring legacy in Plateau State, particularly the construction of the New Government House in Little Rayfield, which he described as one of the finest government complexes in Nigeria.

He also called for national recognition of Senator Jonah Jang and the late Chief Solomon Daushep Lar for their contributions to Nigeria’s democratic struggle through the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO).

The Governor urged younger Nigerians to cultivate respect for elders and leaders, emphasizing that honouring those who have served society remains both a cultural responsibility and a moral obligation.

Similarly, the National Chairman of the APC, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, described Senator Jang as a towering figure of integrity, a man of deep faith, and a leader who genuinely cares for his people.

Prof. Yilwatda stated that although he had not worked closely with the elder statesman, he had long admired his leadership qualities and contributions to Plateau State. He prayed for God’s continued blessings, good health, wisdom, and strength upon Senator Jang as he continues to offer valuable counsel to the state and nation.

In his remarks, Senator Jonah David Jang gave glory to God for preserving his life to witness both his 80th birthday celebration and the unveiling of his autobiography, describing the occasion as a testament to God’s faithfulness throughout his life’s journey.

He expressed profound appreciation to Governor Mutfwang, the Plateau State Government, and the people of Plateau State for organizing the celebration in his honour. He also thanked Vice President Shettima for attending despite the demands of his office.

The elder statesman explained that the autobiography was written to preserve an accurate account of his life and public service for future generations, following persistent encouragement from his son, Hon. Yakubu Jang.

According to him, the book was not written to settle scores but to provide an honest account of the circumstances surrounding many decisions taken during his years in public service and to correct misconceptions that have trailed his career.

Senator Jang acknowledged the roles played by former military President Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, former President Olusegun Obasanjo, and former President Goodluck Jonathan in shaping different phases of his public service journey.

He particularly commended former President Jonathan for appointing a Grade A Minister from Plateau State, approving the refund of funds expended by the state on federal roads, and authorizing the establishment of Operation Rainbow, which strengthened the state’s security architecture.

Reflecting on his life’s journey, Senator Jang reminded Nigerians that public office, wealth, and fame are temporary, while character, faith, service to humanity, and a relationship with God remain life’s greatest treasures.

He encouraged young Nigerians to embrace Christ early in life, stressing that earthly accomplishments pale in comparison to the eternal value of salvation.

Earlier, renowned broadcaster Seun Okinbaloye reviewed the autobiography, describing it as “a man’s argument with history.”

According to him, the memoir presents Senator Jang’s personal account of his remarkable journey from a young boy in Du to military officer, governor, senator, and elder statesman, while offering valuable lessons on leadership, identity, integrity, faith, and peace.

Goodwill messages were delivered by the Emir of Kanam, His Royal Highness Alhaji Mu’azu Muhammadu II, who represented the Chairman of the Plateau State Council of Chiefs and Emirs, Da Jacob Gyang Buba; the Vice President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Rev. Dr. Stephen Panya Baba; former Minister of Women Affairs, Dame Pauline Tallen; and several other dignitaries. They unanimously described Senator Jang as a courageous leader whose legacy of service continues to inspire generations of Nigerians.

The event reached a memorable climax with the announcement of Hon. Yakubu David Jang’s appointment as Senior Special Assistant to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, drawing applause and celebration from attendees.