The former Minister of Information and Culture, Lai Mohammed, has stated that his new book is aimed at correcting misconceptions about the administration of former president Muhammadu Buhari.
Speaking on Wednesday in Abuja at the presentation of his book, “Headlines and Soundbites: Media Moments that Defined an Administration,” Mohammed stated that the book brought to light how government policies under the Buhari administration were shaped and communicated to Nigerians.
He stressed that his long access to government decision-making placed a responsibility on him to preserve an accurate record.
The former minister described the book as a personal effort to document his work as the longest-serving Minister of Information and Culture in Nigeria’s history, spanning information, culture, tourism and national orientation.
He said, “For almost eight years, I was at the centre of government communication, crisis management, national orientation, culture, and tourism.
“I saw firsthand how decisions were made, how narratives were shaped, and how misinformation often overshadowed facts.
“This book, therefore, is about correcting misconceptions, providing context, and sharing firsthand accounts, accounts that history must never forget.”
Mohammed said the publication reflected his belief that Africans must tell their own stories to avoid distortion.
He said readers would gain insights into tough decisions taken during his tenure and moments when he nearly resigned, as well as government communication strategies during the 2023 elections.
He added that the book documented efforts to counter misinformation on security, the “Change Begins With Me” national orientation campaign, and his personal reflections on the late president.
Asked whether the book was written to defend Buhari’s legacy, Mohammed said the truth required no defence, adding that the administration’s achievements were documented through the Scorecard series and a legacy portal.
“President Muhammadu Buhari did his best and left the rest to posterity, which I am confident will be kind to him,” he said.
He expressed hope that the book would serve as a resource for researchers, media professionals and students of politics, communication and public relations.