Mathew Kukah, Catholic Bishop of the Sokoto diocese, will deliver the keynote address at the public presentation and official launch of three new books by Reuben Abati.
Abati is a journalist and former special adviser on media and publicity to ex-President Goodluck Jonathan.
The book presentation, scheduled for Friday, November 7, will take place at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA), Victoria Island, Lagos.
According to a statement on Wednesday, Kukah, known for his social advocacy and role in national dialogue, will speak on the theme “Nigeria: Time to Reload”.
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The three books to be unveiled are “Portraits: People, Politics and Society, A Love Letter & Other Stories, and How Goodluck Jonathan Became President”, all published by Caltop Publications Nigeria Limited.
The statement said the occasion also marks Abati’s 60th birthday, describing it as a milestone that doubles as a reflection on his contributions to journalism, literature, and national development.
Kukah, who has long been a voice for peace and social justice, brings decades of experience in academia, governance reform, and public service.
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Ordained in 1976, the cleric holds degrees from the University of Ibadan, the Pontifical Urban University in Rome, the University of Bradford, and the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS), University of London.
He has served on several national committees, including the Investigation Commission of Human Rights Violations (1999–2001), the National Political Reform Conference (2005), and the Committee on Electoral Reform (2007–2009).
Kukah is also the convener of the National Peace Committee, established in 2014 to support credible and peaceful general elections in Nigeria.
He has published several works, including “Religion, Politics and Power in Northern Nigeria”; “Religious Militancy and Self-Assertion: Islam and Politics in Nigeria”; and “Witness to Justice”.
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Kukah was appointed by Pope Francis in 2020 as a member of the Dicastery on integral human development.
The book presentation is expected to draw government officials, scholars, journalists, and members of the clergy.
