2027: Leaders urged to strengthen governance, uphold democratic principles
Nigeria’s policy, security, and business leaders on Tuesday gathered at the Los Angeles Events & Conference Centre, Abuja, for the public presentation of two new books by Dr. Dakuku Peterside — Leading in a Storm and Beneath the Surface. The event, chaired by elder statesman Mohammed Hayatudeen, OON, drew dignitaries from government, the military, and […]
Nigeria’s policy, security, and business leaders on Tuesday gathered at the Los Angeles Events & Conference Centre, Abuja, for the public presentation of two new books by Dr. Dakuku Peterside — Leading in a Storm and Beneath the Surface.
The event, chaired by elder statesman Mohammed Hayatudeen, OON, drew dignitaries from government, the military, and the diplomatic community, including the Ambassador of Cuba to Nigeria.
In his opening remarks, Hayatudeen described the books as “a mirror and a compass,” noting that they reflect Nigeria’s current challenges while offering guidance for the future. He said Beneath the Surface provides an honest diagnosis of national issues, while Leading in a Storm serves as a practical guide for leadership in uncertain times.
He urged political and institutional leaders to strengthen governance and uphold democratic principles ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Five governors — from Kano, Katsina, Taraba, Akwa Ibom, and Ebonyi States — were represented at the event, alongside several federal ministers. In their goodwill messages, the governors linked the themes of the books to their ongoing efforts in sectors such as security, agriculture, education, and infrastructure.
The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, commended the books as “field-ready guides for a world where uncertainty is constant.” He also announced a partnership between the Defence Headquarters and Dr. Peterside to introduce crisis-leadership training across military formations, adding that 200 copies of the books would be procured as reference materials for officers.
The Governor of Taraba State, Agbu Kefas, said the insights in the books align with his administration’s work in agro-processing, trade, and eco-tourism.
During the formal presentation, High Chief Jim Martin Nwabueze and Alhaji Nasiru Danu, OFR, unveiled the publications. The Governor of Ebonyi State purchased five copies for ₦5 million, while the governors of Kano, Katsina, Taraba, and Akwa Ibom bought copies for members of their respective executive councils and officials.
Organisers said the event raised more than ₦200 million in total.
Among those in attendance were former Heads of Service, ministers, and senior public figures, including Emeka Ihedioha, Liyel Imoke, Gen. T.Y. Buratai (rtd), Boss Mustapha, Ibe Kachikwu, Gen. Abdulrahman Dambazau (rtd), Celestine Omehia, and Senator Sanusi Daggash.
Attendees described the books as relevant and practical for policymakers, executives, military leaders, and students, noting that they provide frameworks for decision-making and institutional renewal.
Leading in a Storm explores strategies for navigating volatility and building resilient teams, while Beneath the Surface examines governance, accountability, and national reform.
Dr. Dakuku Peterside is a public policy expert and development advocate with experience in governance reforms, energy regulation, and institutional strengthening.