Reno Omokri Reviews Babangida’s Autobiography A Journey in Service

 

Reno Omokri, a former presidential aide, author, and social commentator, has shared his thoughts on the newly released autobiography of former Nigerian military president, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida. The book, titled A Journey in Service, has already drawn attention across the country, and Omokri’s review adds fresh perspective on both the substance and presentation of the memoir.

Writing on his official X (formerly Twitter) account, Omokri began his remarks with a critique of the book’s cover. He noted that while Babangida is widely considered a man of charm and grace, the cover photograph chosen for the autobiography does not reflect this. According to him, the image used is “unbefitting” and does not project the former leader at his best.

“I know we shouldn’t judge a book by its cover, but we are humans and cannot help it,” Omokri wrote. He compared Babangida’s cover with those of former President Olusegun Obasanjo, stating that although Obasanjo may not be the most physically attractive figure, the images chosen for his books always convey “strength and warmth.” For Omokri, political leaders releasing autobiographies must be mindful of such details, since the cover serves as the first impression to readers.

Moving into the content, Omokri suggested that Babangida’s tone in the early chapters appeared overly apologetic. He pointed to a line where the former military ruler admitted that his memory might not be sharp, describing it as “too much room to doubt his reminiscences.”

In Omokri’s view, Babangida should have written with greater confidence rather than making self-deprecating statements. “He has weakened those who love and support him by this unnecessary admission,” he remarked.

Omokri further argued that history has not judged Babangida as harshly as the general might think. He noted that while Babangida faced criticism during and after his rule, some of the accusations against him were exaggerated. On the other hand, many of Nigeria’s lasting institutions and landmark projects were initiated during his administration.

Highlighting Babangida’s achievements, Omokri described him as a “catalytic figure” in Nigeria’s history. He credited Babangida with major national decisions that continue to shape the country today.

Among these are the construction and relocation of Nigeria’s capital to Abuja, the building of the iconic Third Mainland Bridge in Lagos, and the creation of several new states across the federation. Omokri observed that Babangida’s government created more states than almost any other administration, with the exception of General Yakubu Gowon’s military regime.

For Omokri, these legacies prove that Babangida played a central role in Nigeria’s journey toward modernization and national unity.

However, Omokri expressed concern over some of the disclosures in the book. In particular, he criticized Babangida’s decision to reveal that Lt. Colonel Bukar Suka Dimka implicated Major General Hassan Katsina during his interrogation.

Omokri felt that while Babangida may have intended to present the detail as surprising or unbelievable, the revelation nonetheless cast a shadow on the memory of Katsina, who remains a respected northern figure and cannot defend himself since he has passed away. “The stain has now been inflicted on a much-loved Arewa hero,” Omokri lamented.

Despite these reservations, Omokri praised the book for showing a more personal side of the former military leader. He was particularly touched by Babangida’s expressions of love and devotion to his late wife, Maryam Babangida, who died in 2009.

Omokri said that while many Nigerians view Babangida as a hard and unbending figure — citing his role in the execution of Major General Mamman Vatsa, a close friend and colleague — the autobiography reveals a man capable of deep love and emotional vulnerability. “Reading about his love story with his late wife, I have my doubts about the belief that he was as hard as nails,” Omokri wrote.

He admitted to feeling empathy for Babangida even in the controversial Vatsa affair, describing the decision as reluctant rather than cruel.

Omokri concluded his reflections by commending Babangida for documenting his life story in detail. He noted that many successful African leaders in politics and business fail to write autobiographies, which makes Babangida’s effort all the more important.

“By writing this book, General Babangida has helped Nigeria navigate its history better,” Omokri observed. He argued that autobiographies serve as valuable guides for the future, preventing societies from repeating past mistakes.

Omokri also promised to share more insights as he continued reading the book, but stressed that his initial impression was largely positive, even if he disagreed with some aspects of the presentation.

Reno Omokri is well-known in Nigeria and beyond as a writer, political analyst, and humanitarian. He served as a special assistant to former President Goodluck Jonathan and has authored several books, including the bestselling Facts Versus Fiction: The True Story of the Jonathan Years. He has also been recognized internationally, being named Hollywood Magazine Humanitarian of the Year in 2019 and Business Insider Influencer of the Year in 2022. In 2024, he was listed as the 21st most talked-about person in Africa.

By reviewing A Journey in Service, Omokri has reignited national debate about Babangida’s legacy, a subject that continues to divide opinion decades after his departure from power. For some Nigerians, the autobiography will serve as a chance to revisit history with fresh eyes. For others, it may be an opportunity to reassess a leader who, despite controversies, played a key role in shaping modern Nigeria.