By Chidinma Iroegbu
Renowned scholar and public servant, Dr. Jumai Ahmadu, has officially launched three landmark books Abuja: The Evolution and Development of a Federal Capital City, Stewards of the Nation: The Role of Civil Servants in National Development, and When the Spirit Whispers at a ceremony attended by top government officials, royal fathers, development partners, and civil society representatives.
Dr. Dasuki Ibrahim Arabi, Director-General of the Bureau of Public Service Reforms, described Nigeria’s civil service as “a body of some of the nation’s most intelligent and dedicated professionals.” He emphasised the importance of reforms guided by research, accountability, and strong leadership values, adding, “This is a celebration of scholarship, thoughtful reflection, and an enduring commitment to strengthening governance and national development.”
Delivering the keynote address, Osasu Igbinedion Ogwuche said the launch was “a moment of reflection, a moment of reckoning, and perhaps, a moment of national redirection.” He noted that the books challenge leaders to focus on integrity, conscience, and institutional continuity. “Potential alone is not destiny. Design, discipline, and execution are,” Ogwuche stated, highlighting the role of Abuja, moral leadership, and civil service in nation-building.
Mariyah Mahmoud Bunkure, Minister of State for the FCT, commended Dr. Jumai’s scholarly contributions, saying, “Your writing is powerful, insightful, and deeply inspiring. These books collectively speak to our national journey, our institutional growth, and the values that sustain public service and personal purpose.” She emphasised that the works will serve as valuable reference materials for policymakers, civil servants, scholars, and the younger generation.
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Former Minister of State, Dr. Ramatu Tijjani Aliyu, praised Dr. Jumai’s humility, diligence, and commitment to service. “She is simple. She is humble. She is diligent. She is focused and committed. Her humility should not be mistaken for weakness; within that humble personality lies great intellectual capacity, strength, and wisdom,” Aliyu said, noting the enduring impact of her work on communities and public service.
Chief Ogwu James Onaja, Ph.D, FCArb, SAN, officiated as the Chief Launcher of the books. Recalling their shared background, he said, “For what I know about Jumai, I am not surprised by the quality of the books we are unveiling today or by the calibre of people gathered here to honour her.” He invited dignitaries and guests to the podium to unveil the books collectively, marking the official launch.
Speakers agreed that the three books offer essential guidance for promoting ethical leadership, institutional development, and sustainable national growth. Ogwuche added that the works remind leaders that “nations are built on competence, consistency, and institutional memory not slogans or short-term popularity.”
The event underscored the importance of scholarship, reflective leadership, and civil service as pillars of national development. Bunkure concluded, “These works will undoubtedly serve as valuable guidance for leaders and citizens alike, reinforcing professionalism, purpose, and integrity in public service.”