May 14, (THEWILL) – President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to inclusive governance and national unity.
The President stated this on Tuesday in Abuja, during the public presentation of a book, “Being True to Myself”, an autobiography of former Jigawa State Governor and elder statesman, Alhaji Sule Lamido.
Represented at event held at the NAF Conference Centre in Abuja, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, praised Lamido as a principled political figure, whose personal journey reflects Nigeria’s democratic struggles and growth.
“This is not just the launch of a book. It is a celebration of a life marked by courage, consistency, and unwavering dedication to democratic ideals”, he said.
Despite Lamido’s well-known political opposition to President Tinubu, the Minister emphasised that the President views opposition not as enmity, but as a vital component of democratic engagement.
“President Tinubu believes every Nigerian — regardless of party affiliation — has a rightful seat at the national table”, Idris said, reaffirming the administration’s commitment to inclusive governance and national unity.
Reflecting on the decade-long process of developing the book, the Minister commended Lamido for preserving his experiences in written form, calling on other political leaders to emulate his example for posterity.
“The title Being True to Myself perfectly captures Lamido’s reputation as a blunt, principled politician. I recommend this work to students, journalists, historians, and political actors who seek a deeper understanding of Nigeria’s democratic evolution”, he added.
Highlighting shared values, Idris noted that President Tinubu, like Lamido, remains committed to truth, justice, peace, and shared prosperity. He also used the occasion to spotlight achievements under the Tinubu administration as the country nears 26 years of uninterrupted democracy.
On national reforms, Idris said, “While the journey hasn’t been without hardship, we are beginning to see the intended outcomes — macroeconomic stability, improved revenue generation, and a stronger foundation for sustainable development.”
He assured Nigerians of Tinubu’s resolve to confront national security challenges head-on and lauded the sacrifices of the armed forces in defending the nation.
On fiscal reforms, Idris said the administration’s tax initiatives are designed to support development at all government levels while ensuring taxpayers are not overburdened.
“President Tinubu welcomes constructive criticism. But while he listens, he remains focused on delivering the right solutions for Nigeria”, he said.
Meanwhile, Lamido has stressed the need to resolve the long-standing financial issue related to late Chief MKO Abiola, the winner of the 1993 Presidential Election.
In his address at the event, Lamido appealed to President Tinubu to settle the N45 billion debt owed Abiola by the Nigerian government.
“I would like to appeal to President Tinubu to close the chapter of June 12. In his book, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida revealed that Abiola won the election. When I went to him (IBB), he said Abiola is being owed N45 billion. Abiola is double punished. One, he was not given the presidency, and two, he is being owed”, he said.
Lamido urged Idris to pass on the message to the President, saying, “Please tell him to pay Abiola’s family the N45 billion. When this money is paid, the chapter of June 12 will be closed. It is very important.”
The launch event drew a wide array of dignitaries, including former President, Olusegun Obasanjo, General Abdulsalami Abubakar, traditional rulers, academics, and party leaders. Lamido’s book is already being hailed as an essential political text for Nigeria’s Fourth Republic.
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