UYO
A new book, chronicling the roles and contributions of a former governor of Akwa Ibom, Obong Victor Attah, to Nigeria’s evolving democracy will be unveiled Thursday, November 20, 2025.
The biography entitled: “Attah, Architect of a New Democratic Dawn,” detailing his premier contributions to Nigeria’s democracy would be presented to mark his 87th birth anniversary.
Attah, from Okop Ndua Erong in Ibesikpo Asutan Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom, was the second democratically elected governor of the state who served from 1999 to 2007 and had already launched a book entitled: “It is well with my Soul,” as part of events that marked his 80th birthday.
Briefing journalists in Uyo, weekend, Dr. Udeme Nana, a member of the Publicity Planning Committee, said the book highlights his involvement in key political reforms, electoral processes, and democratic milestones, offering readers an insider perspective on the country’s political evolution.
Nana, a special adviser on press matters to the ex-governor for eight years, said the book was written by a veteran journalist, Dr. Dele Sobowale, who is said to have put together the book for the past 14 years.
According to him, a one-time Nigeria’s President, Dr Goodluck Jonathan, would serve as chairman on the occasion, while President Bola Tinubu, who was his contemporary, would serve as special guest of honour.
The Founder of Uyo Book Club said the chairman and publisher of Vanguard Newspapers, Mr Sam Amuka, is expected as the book presenter, Professor Effiong Johnson, the book reviewer while Akwa Ibom governor, Pastor Bassey Eno, would be the chief host at the event billed for NAF Conference Center in Abuja.
Nana added, “Obong Attah is known for his advocacy for true federalism, resource control, and payment of derivation to mineral-bearing communities, saying every oil-producing community is entitled to 13 per cent oil derivation compensation.
“When he talks about resource control, you see the way he advocates for a universal application of payment of derivation funds to mineral-bearing communities, not restricted to oil, because there is no state in this country that does not possess a mineral resource in its environment.
“Obong Attah is arguably the best president Nigeria never had since the return to democracy in 1999. If he had become the President of Nigeria, I am sure Obong Attah would have turned Nigeria around for good.”
Nana, a chief lecturer in Akwa Ibom Polytechnic, Ikot Osurua, described Attah as a consummate patriot, cerebral, versatile, energetic, cultured, mentally alert and hard working who possesses world-class capacity and can discuss any issue under the sun, adding that he was respected across Nigeria and beyond.
“He is also credited with several developmental projects in Akwa Ibom, including the construction of roads, housing units, and the Ibom Hotels and Golf Resort, Uyo.
“You can see his vision in the projects which he envisaged for Akwa Ibom. Some of the projects were executed, but some could not be delivered within the time frame of his administration.”
He is the initiator of Victor Attah International Airport, Le Meridian 5-Star Hotel, Akwa Ibom University of Technology, Ibom Power Plant, Ibaka (later Ibom) Deep Seaport, among others.
Basically, the publication aims to educate citizens, inspire young leaders, and document the collective efforts of Attah in strengthening democratic governance.
The book not only reflects Attah’s personal journey in public service but also examines the broader challenges and triumphs of Nigeria’s democratic institutions.
Attah’s book promises to be a key reference for students of political science, policymakers, and anyone interested in understanding the forces that have shaped modern Nigeria.
The public launch is expected to draw top politicians, academics, civil society leaders, and media professionals.
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