Preserving communal history, traditions, identity with the launch of ‘A History of Lassa’
By Ruth Omowunmi Olanipekun
ON Saturday, 27 June, 2026, at 10:00 a.m., the launch of the book A History of Lassa, written by Abdulkadir Gambo Gadzama was held at the Maryam Babangida National Centre for Women Development, Central Business District, Abuja. Dr. Bukar Usman gave an excellent review of the book. The event brought together distinguished personalities from academia, government, religious organizations and traditional institutions. The book serves as a manual to educate the public on the historical significance of Lassa, preserve its cultural heritage, correct the common misconception that ‘Lassa’ refers only to the disease known as ‘Lassa fever’, promote and preserve a part of Nigeria’s history and cultural heritage through literature and raise funds to support the publication and wider distribution of the book.
After Christian and Muslim prayers were offered to show unity and religious harmony among Nigerians and those present, the event chairman, Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama, emphasized the importance of documenting history for future generations. The author, Mr. Gadzama, explained the inspiration behind writing A History of Lassa, stating that the book is written to preserve the history, traditions, and identity of Lassa community while correcting the widespread misconception that ‘Lassa’ is merely the name of a disease. He explained that the disease known as Lassa fever was named after the Marghi (Margi) community town, Lassa, where it was first identified.
A major highlight of the event was the book review delivered by Dr. Usman. Titled ‘Lassa: A Different History,’ Usman gave a comprehensive analysis of the contents of the book, highlighting its historical relevance, depth of research and contribution to preserving the heritage of Lassa people. He emphasized that the publication serves as an important historical record that educates readers about the true identity of Lassa and corrects long-standing misconceptions. The lead launcher then delivered a goodwill message, congratulating the author and encouraging scholars and researchers to continue documenting Nigerian history for future generations.
The audience was later entertained by Margi traditional dancers from Borno State. Their colourful and energetic performance showcased the rich cultural heritage of Margi people and added excitement and cultural significance to the event.
The book was dedicated by Rev. Yakubu Musa before the book launch commenced, with the lead launcher, event chairman Chief Gadzama, the father of the day, Maj.Gen. Paul C. Tarfa, the mother of the day, Mrs. Parmata Ishaya (Nee Abasu Dunya), Chairlady, Mrs. Asta Paul Thahal, co-launchers, supporters and several invited guests making generous financial donations towards the publication and distribution of the book.
At the end of the event, Dr. Usman generously distributed copies of his publication titled ‘A Review of A History of Lassa’ to guests and participants. The publication contains his detailed review of the book and provides readers with additional insight into its historical significance and major themes. The Planning Committee chairman, CP Samson V. Wudah (rtd) gave a vote of thanks, expressing appreciation to the author, dignitaries, donors, organizers, and all participants for contributing to the success of the event.
The evident lesson from the book launch is the importance of preserving history through literature and research. It afforded a better understanding that Lassa is a historical community whose name became internationally recognized because the disease known as Lassa fever was first identified there. The event further reinforced the value of scholarly book reviews, cultural preservation, and collective support for educational and historical publications.
The event was well-organized and professionally coordinated. The programme followed its schedule with each activity successfully executed. The launch of A History of Lassa was a successful, educational, and culturally enriching event. The insightful review by Dr. Usman, the impressive Margi cultural performance and the distribution of ‘A Review of A History of Lassa’ made the occasion memorable and impactful, underscoring the importance of documenting history, preserving cultural heritage, and promoting knowledge through literature. The generous donations made reflected the participants’ support for historical research and literary development.
* Olanipekun, an NYSC member, is a graduate of Mass Communication
