Yesterday, the Transcorp Hilton Hotel in Abuja witnessed a historic event - the launch of two books celebrating the legacy of former President Muhammadu Buhari.
Titled "Working with Buhari: Reflections of a Special Adviser on Media and Publicity (2015-2023)" by Femi Adesina and "Muhammadu Buhari: The Nigerian Legacy (2015 – 2023)".
Buhari's book edited by Dr Udu Yakubu offers unique perspectives on Buhari's eight years in office as Nigeria's president.
Dignitaries at Buhari's Book Launch
The ceremony was graced by a distinguished gathering of dignitaries, including:
President Bola Tinubu: His presence marked a significant moment, representing the first public appearance of both Buhari and his successor since the handover of power in May 2023.
General Yakubu Gowon: The former head of state added a touch of historical significance to the event, bridging the gap between generations of Nigerian leadership.
Former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo: His close association with Buhari's administration lent credibility and weight to the occasion.
Other prominent figures: The event also saw the attendance of former First Lady Aisha Buhari, Senate President Senator Godswill Akpabio, and numerous other dignitaries from the political, academic, and business spheres.
REVIEW: Adesina's Experience as Aide and Buhari's Legacy
Beyond the impressive guest list, the book launch itself was a poignant celebration of Buhari's time in office.
Femi Adesina's book, a personal account of his eight years as Buhari's media adviser, offered an intimate glimpse into the President's thought process, leadership style, and approach to governance.
The five-volume compendium, "Muhammadu Buhari: The Nigerian Legacy," presented a more comprehensive analysis, featuring contributions from over 100 scholars, journalists, and public figures.
This diverse collection of perspectives promised to provide a nuanced and multifaceted understanding of Buhari's presidency, examining his successes, challenges, and overall impact on the nation.
The event was not just about celebrating Buhari's achievements; it also served as a platform for reflection and discussion.
Speakers at the ceremony, including President Tinubu and former President Buhari himself, acknowledged the challenges faced during Buhari's administration and emphasized the importance of learning from both successes and failures.
Overall, the launch of these books and the accompanying ceremony marked a significant moment in Nigerian history.
It provided a space to acknowledge the legacy of former President Buhari, engage in critical discourse about his time in office, and preserve his contributions for future generations.