Shehu Musa Yar'Adua was a first-hand participant in some of Nigeria's most pivotal moments since independence. This book, set against the backdrop of Nigerian history, tells the inside story of Yar'Adua's life and his vision for his country. Tracing events from Yar'Adua's childhood to his unexplained death in prison during General Abacha's regime - and rich with previously unavailable informationthe book offers a unique picture of where Nigeria has been, and perhaps a blueprint of where it is heading. Shehu Musa Yar'Adua was commissioned by the Shehu Musa Yar'Adua Foundation and edited by Jacqueline W. Farris (formerly on the staff of Ambassador Andrew Young and now director general of the Shehu Musa Yar'Adua Foundation) and Mohammed Bomoi (former editor of the Sunday New Nigerian and general editor of Citizen magazine).

In the history of Nigeria's military, and the democratic dispensation, the name of Major-General Shehu Musa Yar'Adua cannot be relegated to the bottom line. In his military career, he distinguished himself as a patriotic officer worthy of his epaulets and honor. During the botched primaries organized by Gen. Ibrahim Babangida, he was disqualified along with other politicians. Rather than recline into obscurity, he rose to the challenge of the times, by condemning the excesses of the military regime of Gen. Sani Abacha. He was later imprisoned and murdered in prison. No doubt, he was a patriotic worthy of great honor - even in death! This book captures his thoughts, speeches, and his roles at various fora, in the nation's journey towards democratic evolution, he was Nigeria's greatest military strategist. May his soul rest in peace.