Yakubu Mohammed Launches Memoir ‘Beyond Expectations’ as Media Veterans, Leaders Laud His Legacy
The public presentation of “Beyond Expectations: A Memoir”, a new book written by veteran journalist and co-founder of the defunct Newswatch Magazine, Alhaji Yakubu Mohammed—brought together some of Nigeria’s most respected journalists and communication experts on Tuesday in Lagos.
The event, held at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA), Victoria Island, showcased the author’s life journey, from his early years to his distinguished career in journalism and public service.
Chairman of the occasion and former Ogun State governor, Chief Olusegun Osoba, commended the author’s contributions to journalism and used the opportunity to address recent remarks by U.S. President Donald Trump on Nigeria. Osoba urged Nigerians to unite in confronting insecurity rather than seeking foreign intervention, warning that external involvement could worsen the nation’s challenges.
“With unity, Nigeria can defeat insecurity,” Osoba said, calling on citizens to rise above religious and political divisions.
In a separate interview, Professor of Strategy and member of The Patriots, Prof. Anthony Kila, emphasized that Nigeria’s problems must be solved internally through responsible and visionary leadership. He criticized what he described as a “philosophical flaw” in President Trump’s understanding of the Nigerian state.
The book reviewer, veteran columnist Lasisi Olagunju, provided an insightful analysis of the memoir, highlighting key milestones in Mohammed’s personal and professional life.
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotosho, praised Mohammed as a “highly respected journalist and media entrepreneur” whose work has enriched Nigeria’s media landscape.
Sanwo-Olu encouraged senior journalists to emulate Mohammed by documenting their experiences for the benefit of younger professionals.
He also expressed concern about the declining standards in news reporting and urged practitioners to find innovative ways to combat the spread of fake news.
