Former President Goodluck Jonathan on Saturday described former Plateau State Governor, Senator Jonah David Jang, as “positively stubborn,” saying the elder statesman has consistently demonstrated uncommon courage and unwavering commitment whenever the interest of Plateau State and its people was at stake.

Jonathan stated this during the public presentation of Jang’s autobiography, Airman to Politics: My Life, held as part of activities marking the former governor’s 80th birthday in Jos.

Recalling their working relationship during his administration, Jonathan said Jang distinguished himself as a dependable ally who remained committed to the progress of Plateau State and the unity of Nigeria despite the political, economic and security challenges confronting the country at the time.

“Senator Jonah Jang is positively stubborn whenever he believes a decision is in the best interest of Plateau people,” Jonathan said.

According to the former President, Jang’s firmness of conviction has always been driven by principle rather than personal interest, describing him as a leader who never compromised on issues affecting the welfare of his people.

“I had the privilege of working with Senator Jang when I was President, and he was Governor of Plateau State.

“We found him to be a dependable partner who was committed to the progress of Plateau State and supported our collective efforts to strengthen national unity and deepen our democracy,” he said.

Jonathan noted that leadership should be measured not by the offices occupied but by commitment, discipline and the willingness to serve others.

He described Jang’s autobiography as an important contribution to Nigeria’s political history, saying it preserves the experiences and convictions of one of the country’s respected public servants.

“‘Airman to Politics: My Life’ is more than a personal memoir. It is a contribution to our national history. It reminds us that leadership requires courage, patience, resilience and faith,” he said.

The former President also announced that the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation would later this month convene a national democracy dialogue to examine the state of Nigeria’s democracy and the role of political parties in strengthening democratic governance.

According to him, the dialogue will bring together political leaders, policymakers, scholars and other stakeholders to deliberate on the evolution of political parties and the future of Nigeria’s democracy.

“We will discuss how political parties are evolving and how we can continue to strengthen democracy in Nigeria,” Jonathan said.

Paying further tribute to Jang, the former President described the retired Air Commodore as a statesman whose life reflects faith, sacrifice, discipline and selfless service.

He added that books documenting the experiences of national leaders remain essential because they preserve history and help younger generations understand the country’s democratic evolution.

Jonathan congratulated Jang on his 80th birthday and the unveiling of his autobiography, praying that God would grant him many more years in good health, wisdom and fulfilment.

He also acknowledged the support of Jang’s wife throughout his years in public service.

“If he believes in a cause, especially when it concerns Plateau State, it is difficult to convince him otherwise. He could not have achieved all he has without the unwavering support of his wife,” Jonathan said.

The event attracted Vice President Kashim Shettima, Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang, APC National Chairman Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, governors, ministers, members of the National Assembly, traditional rulers, religious leaders, diplomats, senior military officers and other dignitaries from across the country, who gathered to celebrate Jang’s 80th birthday and witness the unveiling of his autobiography.

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