Mary Lar, widow of the late Plateau State Governor Solomon Lar, advocated for the establishment of a national hall of fame to immortalize Nigeria’s distinguished figures. Speaking at a tribute service for the late General Jeremiah Useni, a former Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Mrs. Lar emphasized the importance of such a monument in inspiring future generations. She envisioned a space where the names and accomplishments of national heroes across diverse fields would be showcased, providing a tangible reminder of their contributions and motivating young Nigerians to strive for excellence. This call echoes similar institutions in other nations, highlighting the power of recognizing and celebrating national achievements. Beyond the call for a hall of fame, Mrs. Lar also underscored the critical need for national unity and peaceful coexistence, praying for a Nigeria where citizens live harmoniously, fostering the progress and development of the nation.
The tribute service, held in Abuja, served as a platform for dignitaries, politicians, and military personnel to honour the life and legacy of General Useni, who passed away on January 23, 2025. Mrs. Lar, reflecting on General Useni’s character, expressed her belief that he departed this world on good terms with his creator, leaving behind a legacy of goodwill. This sentiment resonated with the attendees, who gathered to remember a man whose influence spanned various spheres of Nigerian society. The event provided a poignant moment of reflection on General Useni’s contributions, highlighting his impact on the nation’s capital and beyond.
Former Minister of Aviation, Osita Chidoka, offered a personal account of General Useni’s influence on his career trajectory. Recalling his time as a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member, Chidoka explained how General Useni’s decision to offer automatic employment to NYSC award winners played a pivotal role in his professional life. This opportunity, facilitated by General Useni, launched Chidoka into the Federal Capital Territory Administration, where his career began to flourish. He recounted how, within months of his employment, he was appointed secretary to a national committee, a position that exposed him to prominent figures in government and religious circles, including Cardinal Onaiyekan. This early exposure, according to Chidoka, laid the foundation for his future in public service.
Chidoka further detailed how General Useni championed his inclusion in the national committee despite facing opposition, solidifying his belief in the General’s commitment to fairness and empowering young Nigerians. This act of support not only propelled Chidoka’s career but also demonstrated General Useni’s dedication to nurturing future leaders. Chidoka emphasized that General Useni’s leadership style, characterized by fairness, justice, and a genuine desire to empower the youth, should serve as a model for national leadership. He painted a picture of a man who believed in providing opportunities for young people to contribute meaningfully to the nation’s development.
The narrative shared by Chidoka serves as a testament to General Useni’s impact on individuals and, by extension, the nation. His decision to prioritize the employment of promising young Nigerians had a ripple effect, shaping the careers of individuals like Chidoka and contributing to the overall development of the country’s human capital. By providing opportunities and championing their cause, General Useni fostered an environment where young talent could thrive and contribute to nation-building.
In essence, the tribute service for General Useni was not merely a remembrance of his life but a celebration of his values and his enduring influence on Nigerian society. The calls for a national hall of fame by Mrs. Lar and the personal testimonies shared by individuals like Chidoka underscored the importance of recognizing and honoring individuals who have made significant contributions to the nation’s growth and progress. General Useni’s commitment to fairness, justice, and empowering young Nigerians serves as a powerful example for current and future leaders, highlighting the importance of investing in the nation’s human capital and creating a society where talent can flourish. The event served as a reminder of the lasting impact of leadership that prioritizes the well-being and progress of its people.
