Bishop Mathew Kukah will headline Reuben Abati’s triple book launch in Lagos on November 7, delivering a keynote on Nigeria’s renewal and unity

Bishop Mathew Kukah, the Catholic Bishop of Sokoto, will headline the official presentation of three new books by veteran journalist and public intellectual Dr Reuben Abati on Friday, 7 November 2025, at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA), Victoria Island, Lagos.

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The highly anticipated event coincides with Dr Abati’s 60th birthday and celebrates his enduring influence on Nigerian journalism, politics, and literature.

Bishop Kukah will deliver a keynote address titled “Nigeria: Time to Re-Load”, a reflective exploration of national renewal, governance, and unity.

Known for his fearless advocacy on social justice and good governance, the cleric’s participation adds a moral and intellectual depth to the occasion.

Published by Caltop Publications Nigeria Limited, the three books—Portraits: People, Politics and Society, A Love Letter & Other Stories, and How Goodluck Jonathan Became President—capture different dimensions of Abati’s career as a writer, thinker, and former presidential spokesperson.

Organisers have confirmed that the event will draw leading voices from academia, politics, the clergy, and the media. The launch will begin at 10 a.m. at the NIIA, Kofo Abayomi Street, Victoria Island.

A Rhodes and Edward Mason Fellow, Bishop Mathew Kukah studied at the University of Bradford, Oxford University, and Harvard University, earning his PhD from the School of Oriental and African Studies, University of London.

His acclaimed works, including Religion, Politics and Power in Northern Nigeria and Witness to Justice, continue to shape Nigeria’s socio-political thought.

Currently the convener of the National Peace Committee, established to promote peaceful elections and national cohesion, Kukah’s presence at the launch underscores the intersection of faith, scholarship, and civic responsibility.

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Dr Abati’s literary and political reflections are expected to inspire dialogue on Nigeria’s democratic evolution and collective responsibility in rebuilding trust and leadership.