Reuben Abati Set to Unveil Three New Books on Politics, Society, and Personal Reflections
Renowned journalist, writer, and public intellectual Dr. Reuben Abati is set to officially launch three new books that offer deep, thought-provoking reflections on politics, society, and his personal experiences.
The public presentation, organised by Caltop Publications Nigeria Limited, will take place on Friday, November 7, 2025, at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA), Victoria Island, Lagos. The event will also mark a milestone in Abati’s life, his 60th birthday celebration, making it both a literary and personal landmark.
The three books slated for release are:
1. Portraits: People, Politics and Society
2. A Love Letter & Other Stories
3. How Goodluck Jonathan Became President
Each title explores different facets of Abati’s intellectual journey. Portraits: People, Politics and Societycaptures his sharp analysis of Nigerian leadership and social structures; A Love Letter & Other Storiesshowcases his storytelling flair, weaving narratives that reveal the complexities of human relationships; while How Goodluck Jonathan Became President offers a behind-the-scenes chronicle of one of Nigeria’s most intriguing political transitions, drawn from his time as a presidential insider.
Speaking about the forthcoming launch, Ayo Arowosegbe, Managing Director of Caltop Publications, described the books as “compelling, insightful, and relevant for our times.” He added that they “reflect Dr. Abati’s signature blend of intellect, wit, and empathy,” making them invaluable to policymakers, scholars, journalists, students, and all readers interested in Nigeria’s political and cultural evolution.
The event is expected to attract a distinguished audience, including government officials, academics, business leaders, members of the media, and the literary community. It promises to be one of the year’s most anticipated gatherings of Nigeria’s intellectual and creative elite.
Dr. Reuben Abati’s illustrious career spans journalism, academia, politics, and broadcasting. A former Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to ex-President Goodluck Jonathan, Abati previously served as Chairman of the Editorial Board of The Guardian newspaper, where he established himself as one of Nigeria’s most influential columnists.
Before venturing into journalism, he lectured in Drama and Literature at Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ogun State, nurturing young scholars in the humanities. Over the years, he has served on numerous governing boards, including the Lagos State Security Trust Fund and Olabisi Onabanjo University Governing Council.
Beyond print media, Abati has made a strong mark on broadcast journalism. He currently co-anchors The Morning Show and ThisDay Live on Arise TV, and hosts the popular radio programme City Talks with Reuben Abati on City 101.5 FM, where he engages with issues shaping Nigeria’s socio-political landscape.
The literary event, organised by Caltop Publications, is open to the public and promises to be a major highlight on Nigeria’s intellectual and cultural calendar, celebrating not just new works of thought and creativity, but also a life dedicated to truth, learning, and public service.
Event Details:
📅 Date: Friday, November 7, 2025
📍 Venue: Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA), Kofo Abayomi Street, Victoria Island, Lagos
🕙 Time: 10:00 a.m.
“Reuben Abati’s writings remind us that the pen remains one of the most powerful instruments for shaping national consciousness,” — Ayo Arowosegbe, MD, Caltop Publications.