About the Book
From the sunbaked fields of Birnin Kudu to the polished halls of Abuja and the diplomatic salons of Geneva, "Bring True With Myself" traces the extraordinary ascent of Sule Lamido, a village boy whose unshakable integrity propelled him from humble beginnings to the highest echelons of Nigerian politics. In its opening pages, the narrative unfolds beneath the shade of a mighty baobab, where young Sule first learns the twin pillars of character-perseverance and honesty-from his farmer father and schoolteacher mother. These early lessons, woven through tender vignettes of family life and formative encounters with local storytellers, set the stage for a life defined by service rather than ambition.
As Sule's curiosity blossoms, he finds himself drawn to the classroom and the town council alike, discovering that governance is not born of decrees but of dialogue. The memoir's next chapters chronicle his rise through student politics at Ahmadu Bello University, where late‐night debates and field research among northern farmers sharpen his empathy and strategic acumen. These experiences, vividly rendered in scenes of crowded dormitories and dusty markets, reveal the young leader's determination to bridge lofty political theories with the lived realities of ordinary Nigerians.
The heart of the biography beats strongest in Sule's tenure as governor of Jigawa State, a period marked by bold innovations that married tradition with technology. Here, Allen Sarah brings to life the floating schools of the floodplain, solar‐powered irrigation schemes, and participatory budgeting councils that transformed villages once forgotten by development planners. Through richly detailed profiles of teachers, nurses, and farmers-people whose lives were forever altered by his policies-the reader witnesses how one man's vision can galvanize an entire region.
Yet service on a grand scale invites profound dilemmas. The book delves into Sule's fraught relationship with the presidency and the delicate dance of federalism as he defended Jigawa's autonomy while securing vital resources. In gripping chapters on the farmers‐herders crisis, Sarah shows how dialogue and constitutional ingenuity defused communal tensions, even as bureaucratic inertia and party pressures threatened to undo months of painstaking work. These passages underscore the complex trade‐offs inherent in leadership and the ever‐present tension between principle and pragmatism.
Interwoven throughout are poignant reflections on personal sacrifice: the missed anniversaries, the late nights at the diplomatic table, and the headlines that sometimes sowed discord in his marriage. Sule's regrets-in scholarships announced too late for rural families, in health clinics opened without adequate staffing, in alliances forged for expediency-offer a rare glimpse of a public figure unafraid to confront his own fallibility. These candid admissions, rendered with grace and humility, transform the biography from a chronicle of achievements into a meditation on the moral costs of power.
The concluding section carries the story beyond office, chronicling the founding of the Sule Lamido Leadership Academy and the cultivation of future generations of changemakers. It celebrates his enduring commitment to transparency, community engagement, and gender inclusion, illustrating how his ideas took root in classrooms, health centers, and cooperatives across northern Nigeria. By spotlighting the academy's alumni-engineers, lawyers, and social entrepreneurs-the narrative affirms that true legacy lies not in monuments, but in empowered citizens who carry forward the torch of service.
About the Author :
Allen Sarah is an accomplished historian, writer, and academic, renowned for his deep insights into the political, social, and historical landscapes of both Nigeria and the broader African continent. Born and raised in Newark, Delaware, United States, Allen developed an early interest in history, particularly in the complex narratives that shape nations and societies. His work spans several genres, with a focus on biographical storytelling and political analysis.A graduate of the prestigious Rutgers University, Allen pursued a degree in History, where he earned his Bachelor's and Master's degrees. His passion for African history and politics led him to further his academic pursuits, studying the post-colonial developments of African states and the dynamics of leadership within the continent. His dissertation, which centered on the influence of leadership in African political transitions, was widely praised for its thorough research and balanced perspective.In addition to his academic achievements, Allen Sarah has worked as a consultant and advisor for various international organizations, offering expertise on historical narratives and the impact of governance on African societies. His consultancy work has provided him with the opportunity to interact with leaders and historians from around the world, which further deepened his understanding of African history and contemporary politics.Allen's writing career has been equally impressive. His first major work was a comprehensive biography of a prominent African leader, which was well-received by both scholars and general readers. His keen ability to weave together the personal and political aspects of his subjects has made his books both engaging and informative. One of his most notable works, *Bring True With Myself: The Biographical Journey of Sule Lamido*, garnered critical acclaim for its nuanced portrayal of Lamido's life and leadership. In this biography, Allen successfully brings out the complexities of Nigerian politics, presenting them in a way that is accessible and relevant to both Nigerian and global audiences.Beyond his writing, Allen is also known for his role in promoting cross-cultural understanding. He frequently lectures at academic conferences and participates in public discussions on topics related to African history, politics, and leadership. His ability to translate historical events into meaningful lessons for contemporary leaders has made him a respected figure in both academic and political circles.Despite his success, Allen remains grounded in his roots from Newark, a city known for its diversity and rich cultural heritage. He often reflects on how his upbringing in this environment has shaped his perspective on history and society. Allen's personal story is one of perseverance, intellectual curiosity, and a deep commitment to shedding light on the untold stories of African leaders and the transformative power of history.Through his books and lectures, Allen Sarah continues to inspire future generations of historians, politicians, and leaders who seek to understand the intricate webs of history and politics that define our world.
Review :
"Bring True With Myself is a compelling chronicle of one of Nigeria's most dedicated public servants. Sule Lamido's journey through the labyrinth of Nigerian politics is a testament to resilience, integrity, and a deep sense of duty to the people he served. This biography sheds light on the life of a man who truly lived by his principles, even when faced with overwhelming odds."
- General Yakubu Gowon (Former Head of State)
"Sule Lamido is one of the few Nigerian leaders who managed to remain true to his roots while navigating the complexities of national politics. Allen Sarah's work paints a vivid picture of his tireless service to Jigawa State and Nigeria at large. This biography captures Lamido's exceptional leadership and provides important lessons for today's politicians."
- General Muhammadu Buhari (Former President of Nigeria)
"This book is a must-read for anyone who seeks to understand the intricate dynamics of Nigerian politics and governance. Sule Lamido's steadfastness and vision for his people are well captured in these pages. Through Sarah's words, we see the man behind the public persona, a man whose legacy will resonate for years to come."
- General Ibrahim Babangida (Former Head of State)
"Allen Sarah has done an exceptional job bringing Sule Lamido's life to the forefront. This biography offers more than just a political narrative-it reveals a man deeply committed to the welfare of his people. Lamido's time as a governor and his unwavering dedication to public service will forever remain an inspiring chapter in Nigeria's history."
- Peter Obi (Former Governor of Anambra State)
"Sule Lamido exemplifies the kind of leadership that Nigeria so desperately needs: one rooted in service, humility, and the pursuit of the common good. In this biography, Sarah not only tells Lamido's story but also sheds light on the political landscape of Nigeria during his time. It is an insightful and inspiring read."
- General Abdulsalami Abubakar (Former Head of State)
"Sule Lamido was a beacon of hope for many in Nigeria. His leadership style, characterized by pragmatism and a deep sense of responsibility, comes through clearly in this biography. Allen Sarah has managed to encapsulate Lamido's journey in a way that will enlighten both current and future generations of Nigerians."
- Senator David Alechenu Alechenu (Former Senator President Of Nigeria)
"Sule Lamido's legacy is one of courage, integrity, and unyielding commitment to his people. This biography is a rich and detailed portrayal of a man who balanced the demands of politics with a genuine desire to improve the lives of his constituents. A true patriot, Lamido's journey is one every Nigerian leader should study."
- General Olusegun Obasanjo (Former President of Nigeria)
