Former Plateau State Governor, Jonah Jang, has urged Nigerian politicians to place character, faith and service above the pursuit of political power, saying leadership should be driven by integrity rather than personal ambition.
He made the call on Saturday in Jos during the celebration of his 80th birthday and the launch of his autobiography, From Airman to Politics. The event was attended by Vice President Kashim Shettima, former President Goodluck Jonathan, governors, lawmakers, diplomats, traditional rulers and other political leaders.
Reflecting on his life in the military and politics, Jang said he had come to realise that power, wealth and fame are temporary, while character and service leave a lasting legacy.
“Looking back over the past 80 years, I have learnt that positions come and go, power is temporary, fame fades and wealth cannot satisfy the deepest desires of the heart. What truly matters is character, faith, service to humanity and our relationship with God,” he said.
He encouraged public office holders to focus on building a legacy of honesty and selfless service instead of chasing political offices and material wealth.
Jang explained that he never planned to write his autobiography until his son, Yakubu, convinced him to document his experiences. He said the book was also meant to correct misconceptions surrounding some of the decisions he made while in office.
“Many assumptions have been made about my life and decisions. Some were based on incomplete information, while others created misunderstandings that still exist today. This book is not about attacking anyone or settling scores. It is simply an honest account of my experiences and the circumstances behind my decisions,” he said.
He dedicated the book to God and described it as a testimony of divine grace, urging Nigerians to live lives rooted in humility, faith and service.
Also speaking at the event, Labour Party National Chairman, Nenadi Usman, called on politicians to embrace issue-based campaigns ahead of the 2027 general elections and avoid politics that could divide the country.
She said elections should be contests of ideas, competence and character, not battles that create hatred among Nigerians.
“The next election should not be about fighting fellow Nigerians. It should be about presenting better ideas and better leadership. Politics should never be greater than our love for the country,” she said.
Usman urged political parties and their supporters to reject inflammatory language and embrace tolerance, respect and peaceful engagement.
“Our parties may be different, but Nigeria belongs to all of us. We must conduct politics in a way that strengthens our democracy and protects our national unity,” she added.
She stressed that democracy thrives when disagreements are handled with respect, noting that political differences should build stronger institutions rather than weaken the nation.
Paying tribute to Jang, Usman described him as a patriotic leader whose years of service in the military, as governor and later as senator reflected discipline, courage and dedication to national development.
She wished him continued good health and many more years of service to Nigeria.
