By David Torough, Abuja

Former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, yesterday declared that Nigeria would survive its present political, economic and security challenges, insisting that the country “will not fall” despite growing national anxieties ahead of the 2027 elections.

Gowon spoke in Abuja during the public presentation of his autobiography, “My Life of Duty and Allegiance”, at a gathering that drew the nation’s political, military and traditional elite.

The event quickly transformed from a book launch into a major national reflection on leadership, unity, reconciliation and the future of Nigeria, with several speakers warning against deepening distrust, political desperation and divisive politics.

Former President Goodluck Jonathan, in his remarks, said leadership is truly tested during periods of crisis, noting that difficult moments separate genuine leaders from pretenders.

“Many people can appear to be good leaders when circumstances are favourable. It is during moments of crisis that you truly distinguish the men from the boys,” Jonathan said.

Reflecting on the civil war era, Gowon recalled the burden of preserving national unity and reaffirmed his belief in Nigeria’s survival.

“During my time as Head of State, the country did not fall, and I remain confident that despite all her challenges, Nigeria will still not fall,” he declared.

The former military ruler also warned politicians against desperation and “do-or-die politics” as the nation gradually moves toward the 2027 general elections.

Vice President Kashim Shettima, who represented President Bola Tinubu, lamented worsening suspicion among Nigerians and cautioned against the weaponisation of ethnic and religious identities.

“Countries do not endure by accident,” Shettima said, urging Nigerians to embrace peace, dialogue and national cohesion.

Jonathan praised Gowon’s post-war “No Victor, No Vanquished” policy, describing it as the foundation for reconciliation and reintegration after the civil war.

He also commended the establishment of the National Youth Service Corps and ECOWAS, describing both as enduring legacies of visionary leadership.

Reviewing the autobiography, Bishop Matthew Kukah said history could never be captured from one perspective alone, urging Nigerians to document their own experiences rather than demand a single version of events.

Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, said history ultimately remembers leaders for character and integrity rather than power or infrastructure, while the Sultan of Sokoto praised Gowon’s humility and statesmanship.

Retired Lt.-Gen. Theophilus Danjuma, who launched the book with a donation of N3 billion, described Gowon as one of the defining figures of post-independence Nigeria and hailed his reconciliation efforts after the civil war.

Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote, also donated N500 million toward the launch.

By Laide Akinboade Abuja

Federal Character Commission (FCC), said it has concluded arrangement to collaborate with Keep it Different (KID), Agency

on the development and institutional branding of a new digital platform initiative that would strengthen governance systems, improve operational efficiency, and enhancing transparency across public sector institutions.

This was stated in a statement issued and signed by Head of Programs, KID, Agency, Christopher Odogwu, in Abuja.

The Executive Chairman of the Federal Character Commission, Hon. Hulayat Motunrayo Omidiran, said the initiative reflects the Commission’s commitment to deepening institutional reforms and modernising governance processes across its mandate.

She said, “This digital platform initiative represents a strategic step toward strengthening compliance processes, improving communication between Ministries, Departments and Agencies and the Commission, and building more responsive institutional frameworks that align with the Federal Government’s broader digital transformation objectives.”

Also speaking on the collaboration, Precious Emehelu, Founder and CEO, KID described the initiative as a significant institutional advancement that reflects the growing role of digital innovation in strengthening governance structures and improving efficiency within Nigeria’s public sector.

According to her, the project aligns with the agency’s commitment to supporting forward-thinking institutions through strategic communications, digital transformation, and impactful institutional experiences.

She noted that the platform will significantly enhance operational effectiveness through more responsive digital systems, improved access to institutional data, and data-driven administrative processes.

“Beyond technology, this initiative represents a strategic shift toward smarter governance systems and more efficient institutional operations,” Precious Emehelu said. “We believe this collaboration with FCC is both timely and critical in supporting the Federal Government’s broader digital transformation agenda and the ongoing transition toward digital-first operational systems across public institutions.”

The initiative is expected to strengthen institutional transparency, improve stakeholder engagement, and reinforce the implementation of the Federal Character Principle through modernised digital infrastructure.

The initiative forms part of the Commission’s broader reform agenda focused on institutional modernization, improved service delivery, strengthened compliance mechanisms, and enhanced public engagement through technology-driven governance solutions.

From Joseph Amedu, Lokoja

Traditional rulers from Oworo land in Lokoja Local Government Area of Kogi State, have resolved to work together to tackle insecurity and strengthen unity for the development of their communities.

The royal fathers made the resolution during stakeholders’ meeting of Oworo Traditional rulers and Title Holders at the weekend in Lokoja.

The meeting was convened in line with traditional law to review pressing issues affecting the area, with security, unity, and socio-economic progress at the center of deliberations.

Addressing journalists after the meeting, the Olu of Oworo and Chairman Oworoland Traditional Council, Mallam Mohammed Adoga Baiyerohi, said periodic meetings were necessary to take stock of the community’s challenges.

“As provided by our traditional law, we are supposed to meet from time to time to take stock of situations affecting our community.

“Key issues include unity among the people, security, and the socio-economic activities of our people, and how these are being disrupted,” Oba Adoga said.

The council expressed deep concern over the rising insecurity in Oworo land.

The Olu oworo noted that the area’s location had made it a target for kidnappers, bandits, and other criminal elements who exploit its proximity to the River Niger as a hideout and escape route.

“Our land provides a very easy route for them to sneak in and out. This is a challenge we are contending with,” the royal father stated.

He commended Gov. Ahmed Ododo for his hands-on approach to tackling insecurity across Kogi State, noting that the governor had personally visited forests and troubled areas, day and night, to curb criminal activities.

“We appreciate him and pray that God continues to assist the governor. We will only rest when our people can live in peace.

“As long as these nefarious activities continue, we will keep engaging with the government. The relationship between us and the governor will continue to grow stronger,” the Olu added.

The traditional ruler urged the people of Oworo land to set aside political and historical differences and prioritize unity as the foundation for development.

“For development to thrive, it must be preceded by unity and peace. Peace and unity are the gateway to development. We must come together to promote peace, unity, and progress in our land,” he said.

Other traditional rulers who contributed at the event included the Olu Apata, HRH Oba Fedrick Balogun JP; Bajana III of Obajana, HRH Oba Idowu Isenibi, HRH Oba Ismaila Zakari, the Ohiribo-Keta of Karara;  and HRH Oba Abubakar Alugbere, the Masi of Agbaja.

Other traditional title holders at meeting were: Chief Gabiel Agoyi; the Obajemu of Oworoland; Chief (Dr.) Denja Abdul, the Marafa of Oworoland; Chief Aiyedogbon Berida, the Eleson of Oworoland; and Chief A.G Abdullahi, the Baani of Oworoland, among others.

At the close of the meeting, the council resolved to strengthen collaboration between traditional institutions, the Kogi State Government, and security agencies to improve safety and accelerate development in Oworo land.

The council emphasised the need for traditional rulers to unite and carry their subjects along in efforts to advance Oworo land.

The council further proposed the institution of an Oworo Day cultural festival to foster unity and suggested deploying technology to strengthen security against banditry and other crimes.