The elegant halls of Chida International Event Centre, Jabi, Abuja, came alive yesterday as distinguished personalities, policymakers, scholars, media icons, and community leaders gathered for the official launch of The Evolution and Development of a Federal Capital City (Second Edition) by Dr. Jumai Ahmadu. The event was not just a book presentation; it was a historic gathering of men and women who played pivotal roles in shaping the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) into the thriving national symbol it is today.
From the moment guests began arriving at 3:00 PM, it was clear that this was no ordinary literary ceremony. The atmosphere was dignified yet warm, filled with conversations about nation-building, memories of Abuja’s formative years, and reflections on how far the city has come. The calibre of attendees underscored the importance of the work being unveiled. These were indeed “quality people that matter” in the FCT and beyond — individuals whose names are synonymous with leadership, governance, and development.
The highlight of the afternoon was the keynote address delivered by renowned media personality, Osasu Igbinedion. In her eloquent and thought-provoking speech, she emphasized the power of documentation and storytelling in shaping national consciousness. She described Dr. Ahmadu’s book as more than a historical account; it is a preservation of voices, sacrifices, and visions that built Abuja from the ground up. Osasu noted that nations that document their journeys are better positioned to define their futures. Her words resonated deeply with the audience, many of whom had witnessed the early struggles and triumphs of the FCT.
She commended Dr. Ahmadu for painstakingly capturing the narratives of those who worked behind the scenes — administrators, community leaders, technocrats, women mobilizers, and indigenous stakeholders — whose efforts often go unnoticed in mainstream historical accounts. According to her, the book ensures that their contributions will not fade into obscurity but will remain part of Nigeria’s permanent historical archive.
Equally significant was the presence of the Chief Launcher, the respected legal luminary Ogwu Onoja. In his remarks, he described the book as a patriotic contribution to nation-building. He stressed that Abuja’s development is a reflection of Nigeria’s collective aspirations and that understanding its evolution helps citizens appreciate the complexity of governance and urban planning. His generous support as Chief Launcher further demonstrated the confidence placed in the intellectual value and national relevance of the publication.
The event also revisited the powerful testimonies captured within the pages of the book. One of the most moving reflections came from Elder Philemon Dara, whose statement — “If I don’t go to develop my place, who will?” — echoes the spirit of sacrifice that defined Abuja’s early development years. His words represent a generation of Nigerians who left comfort zones to answer the call to service, laying the foundations of a capital city that now stands as a symbol of unity.
Mrs. Rifkatu Chiwada’s narrative highlighted the often-overlooked role of women in the making of Abuja. She reflected on how women organized communities, sensitized families, embraced new opportunities, and navigated the social changes that came with the creation of a new city. Her testimony reminds readers that development is not only about infrastructure but also about social cohesion, inclusion, and grassroots mobilization.
Hon. Abdullahi Adamu Candido added a statesmanlike perspective on leadership and unity. He emphasized that the FCT is not the project of a single administration or group but a collective national responsibility. His contribution reinforces the central theme of the book: that Abuja’s journey from vision to reality was achieved through collaboration, sacrifice, and shared purpose.
Dr. Jumai Ahmadu herself, visibly moved by the overwhelming support, expressed gratitude to all who contributed to the second edition.
– Musa Wada
Abuja
