31/07/2026
Today's news commentary is on the forthcoming celebration of 80 years of service for former Governor Jonah David Jang and the unveiling of his autobiography
It is written by our News and Current Affairs Department
Tomorrow being Saturday and the next day Sunday , the skyline of Plateau state will be aglow this week end as the state prepares to roll out the drums for one of its most illustrious sons, Senator Jonah David Jang
In what has been described as a gathering of “who is who in Nigeria,” the Plateau State Government, led by Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, in conjunction with the Jang family, will on Saturday, August 1, 2026, host an official 80th birthday celebration and the public presentation of the celebrant’s autobiography, titled :"Airman to Politics: My Life.”
The twin events will hold at the Tamarald Event Centre, Jos, and are expected to draw dignitaries from across the political, military, religious, and traditional spectrum.
The book, _“Airman to Politics: My Life” chronicles the remarkable journey of Senator Jang — from his early days as a young airman in the Nigerian Air Force, to his tenure as Military Governor of Benue and Gongola States, and later as two-term civilian Governor of Plateau State and Senator representing Plateau North.
Described by aides as “part memoir, part leadership manual,” the autobiography is expected to offer rare insights into Nigeria’s military and democratic transitions, the challenges of governance on the Plateau, and the personal convictions that have defined Senator Jang’s public life for over five decades.
The public presentation forms the centerpiece of the day’s activities and will feature book reviewers, goodwill messages, and remarks from national leaders.
But the celebration will not end with the book launch.
Organizers have scheduled a Gala Night — an evening expected to blend cultural displays, music, and tributes to the octogenarian.
The spiritual highlight comes the next day, Sunday, August 2, 2026, by 9:00am, with a Thanksgiving Service at COCIN RCC, Du Community in Jos South LGA.
For Governor Mutfwang, the event is more than a birthday. It is, in his words conveyed in the invitation, a celebration “on behalf of the Government and the good people of Plateau State.”
Political watchers note that the joint hosting by the current administration and the Jang family underscores the enduring influence of the former governor and senator in Plateau politics and national affairs.
Political leaders ,Traditional rulers, clergy, former heads of state,former governors, federal lawmakers, and captains of industry are among those expected at Tamarald Event Centre , making the occasion one of the biggest gathering of dignitaries in Jos in recent years.
As invitations go out and preparations peak,there is no doubts that Jos is set for a weekend that blends history, literature, faith, and celebration — all in honor of a man whose life, as the title of his book suggests, has moved _“From Airman to Politics.”
For the people of Plateau, August 1 and 2 will be days to reflect on a legacy of service, and to thank God for 80 years of Senator Jonah Jang.
