Giving Back to Society: ‘Principles for Greatness’ Book on Buratai Presented to the Public
As the curtain falls on the Sprezzatura Book Presentation in collaboration with the Abuja Leadership Centre, one thing is clear: the future of Nigeria’s youth is being shaped by the timeless principles of greatness to inspire a new generation of leaders and shape the destiny of Nigeria as one nation.
By Donald Sunday, Oluwatobilola Davis-Olaoluwa and Olamide Bamidele
The Aso Hall of the Abuja Continental Hotel transformed into a vibrant hub of literature, leadership, and inspiration on Wednesday, August 13, 2025. The occasion marked the formal presentation of “Principles for Greatness from the Life of General Tukur Buratai: Lessons for Today’s Youth,” a book presentation by Sprezzatura Publishing in collaboration with the Abuja Leadership Center in partnership with LightRay! Arts and Book Festival.
A Day of Inspiration
The event was masterfully anchored by Lady E Ejiro Umukoro, the Director of LightRay! Literary Festival who kept the audience engaged with her warmth and insight.
A Day of Inspiration
The event commenced with a welcome address by Prof. Philip Dahida, Director of Abuja Leadership School. This was followed by a captivating spoken-word performance by Hassana, highlighting General Buratai’s perseverance, bravery, and achievements. Other exciting performances and drama presentation from the Aroja Royal Theatre and Move Theatre captured the early years of Lt. General Tukur Buratai’s journey with a special theme dance dedicated to his excellence in leadership and promotion of literature.
Ambassador Yusuf Mamman, Nigeria’s former Envoy to Spain and the Vatican, during his Opening Remarks as the Chairman of the occasion set the tone for the day, emphasizing the need for vision, resilience, and patriotism in shaping the leaders of tomorrow.
Following the Poetry Citation by Adesewo to usher in Lt. General Tukur Yusufu Buratai, the inspirer of the book, shared a personal story of perseverance during his remarks. He emphasized the importance of discipline in shaping the future of the Nigerian youth.
Unveiling the Book
The author, Dr. Sani Mohammed Abubakar, shared the story behind the book ‘Principles of Greatness’ highlighting the leadership philosophy and personal journey of General Tukur Buratai. The book, a 122-page volume with 15 chapters, incorporates essential life skills such as discipline, hard work, leadership traits, and resilience.
Dr. AK Etta Peters, the book reviewer, who is also Chairman Editorial Board of OurNigeriaNews Magazine, spoke eloquently about the inherent value of the book, it’s practical application and value for readers keen on leadership guided by principles.
Key Takeaways from the Book
- Importance of Discipline: Setting a foundation for success
- Hard Work: A crucial element in achieving greatness
- Traits of Leadership: Guiding principles for effective leadership
- Learning from Failure: A stepping stone to success
- Teamwork: Collaboration for achieving common goals
- Continuous Learning: Embracing growth and development
- Goal Setting: Defining and working towards objectives
- Integrity: Upholding moral principles
- Resilience in Adversity: Overcoming challenges
- Effective Communication: Key to successful relationships
- Staying Positive: Maintaining a growth mindset
- Mentorship Matters: Guidance for personal growth
- Relationship Management: Building strong connections
- Management Skills: Leading and organizing effectively
- Lifting Others: Giving back to the community
A Call to Action
Dr. Lloyd F. Ukwu’s thought-provoking guest lecture challenged the audience to see leadership as both a privilege and a responsibility. He outlined three pillars of leadership: statesmanship, strategy for national stability, and fixing challenges to stability. Together, these pillars create a cycle where moral integrity sets the direction, strategy charts the course, and problem-solving keeps progress steady.
Official Unveiling and Public Presentation
The highlight of the event came with the unveiling and public presentation of the book, led by Senator Abdulaziz Musa Yar’Adua stating, “This is a handbook for leaders and aspirants; the book is not for sale, but a means of giving back to the society”. Each guest received a free copy of the book, symbolizing the authors’ commitment to giving back.
Donations followed with Senator Yar’Adua leading the the way with a sizeable contribution to support the books availability to students and individuals across the country. Mr. John Chijioke, and several dignitaries, business moguls, NGOs, amongst others presented large donations at the book presentation. Each guest received a free copy of the book, symbolizing the authors’ commitment to giving back to society.
Good will messages from the Royal Father of the Day, HRH Alhaji (Dr) Ahmadu Aliyu Oga Onawo, the Emir of Doma Nassarawa State amplified the role of nation building and inclusivity where education, technology and innovative drives Nigeria to its Eldorado with the youth taking on the mantle of leadership.
HRM King Sir Dr. Lemu Tsaro Igbara, Amb.P JP GBENE TEEKOO IX, Paramount Ruler of Nortem Bori Community, Khana LGA, Ogoni Land Rivers State firee up the audience on how the Nigerian democratic leadership can inspire more independent candidates to provide the leadership Nigeria needs to stir its affairs in the right direction economically and in the Global scheme of things.
The book presentation was a grand affair, attended by numerous dignitaries who added to the significance of the event. Ambassador Yusuf Mamman, a seasoned diplomat, was the Chairman of the Occasion, while Lt. Gen. Lamidi Adeosun, a distinguished military officer, served as Co-Chairman.
Other notable attendees included General C.G. Musa Chief of Defense Staff, Major General Abdul Khalifa Ibrahim, Commandant Nigeria Defense Academy NDA, Major General Victor Ezugwu (Rtd), Former Director General, Defense Industry Corporation (DICON), Major General Bulama Biu (Rtd) Former GOC 7 DIV, Major General Abdul Khalifa Ibrahim Commandant Nigeria Defense Academy NDA.
Also in attendance was Alh. Dr. Ahmed Manzo, a childhood friend, classmate and associate of Rtd. General Buratai, who is the Director in the Federal Civil Service of Nigeria and Grassroot Politician in Gombe State and Tukur Buratai Jnr, son of General Buratai who is a pilot.
A Celebration of Literature and Leadership
The event drew to a close with Lt. Gen. Lamidi Adeosun (Rtd), Co-Chairman of the occasion, delivering a warm and gracious closing remark.
A Lasting Impact
The Sprezzatura Publishing Book Presentation in collaboration with the Abuja Leadership Centre transcended a mere tribute, becoming a platform for national reflection and a rallying point for youth-driven progress.
As Senator Yar’Adua aptly put it, “The book is not for sale, but a means of giving back to society”—a sentiment that resonated as participants departed with renewed inspiration for service, leadership, and greatness.
Lady Ejiro Umukoro, the Anchor of the event and Director of LightRay! Literary Festival advised the young generation to tap into their creative skills, innovations in digital technology, and talent to create a career path for themselves to also make positive impact in Nigeria.
The event concluded with a sense of renewed inspiration and purpose, as participants departed with a deeper understanding of leadership principles and a call to action to make a positive impact in their communities, leaving a lasting impact on all who attended.
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