General Yakubu Gowon, a former Nigerian head of state, reaffirmed his steadfast conviction in Nigeria’s unity on Tuesday, claiming that despite the country’s rising political, economic, and security issues, his faith in its survival and future remained unshaken.
Gowon addressed the public during the presentation of his autobiography, “My Life of Duty & Allegiance,” at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre in Abuja.
The elder statesman stated that his belief in the Nigerian mission had remained strong decades after guiding the country through one of its most tumultuous eras, the Nigerian Civil War.
“I cannot say it loudly enough that my belief in the long-term survival of Nigeria is total because my love for the country is beyond question,” Gowon declared.
The former military ruler, who became head of state in 1966 after a period of political instability and military intervention, wrote his autobiography to preserve history and counter misinformation about his role in Nigeria’s evolution.
He chose to share his story to contribute to national memory and strengthen understanding of Nigeria’s journey, rather than to attack individuals or revisit old divisions.
“I only needed to tell my truth, not join issues with anyone or sit in judgment over what might be considered right or wrong,” he said.
“Speaking out also became necessary because my story and that of Nigeria were too intertwined.”
The Plateau State-born elder statesman warned against divisive politics ahead of the 2027 general elections, urging political actors to avoid desperation and actions capable of threatening national cohesion.
“We all must rise to contain the desperation frequently exhibited by the political class who engage in what they love to call ‘do or die’ politicking,” he said.
“We must not give room to naysayers who see no good in our nation and would rather label it a ‘failed state.'”
Gowon expressed confidence that Nigeria would overcome its current difficulties, insisting that the country’s diversity should remain a source of strength rather than division.
“On my watch as Head of State, the country did not fall, and I am confident that the nation, despite all its challenges, still will not fall,” he stated.
The former head of state also described public service as a call to responsibility and sacrifice rather than personal glory, noting that leadership must be guided by “conscience and conviction.”
Akogun Lanre Adesuyi, the publisher of the autobiography and CEO of Havilah Group, also spoke at the launch.
He stated that the autobiography, My Life of Duty & Allegiance, documents Gowon’s personal journey, his years in military service, the events leading up to the civil war, post-war reconciliation efforts, and his reflections on nation building.
Gowon remains one of the most important individuals in Nigerian political history. He controlled the country from 1966 to 1975 and led Nigeria during the Civil War, which raged between 1967 and 1970 following the attempted secession of the former Eastern Region as Biafra.
Following the war, Gowon gained widespread recognition for pursuing reconciliation with his “No Victor, No Vanquished” policy, which sought to rebuild national unity and reintegrate impacted areas.
Throughout the decades, he has persistently fought for peace, national integration, and interfaith cooperation through forums like the Nigeria Prays movement.
His renewed call for togetherness comes as Nigeria faces increased economic hardship, insecurity, regional tensions, and political activity ahead of the 2027 elections.
He described the book as more than just a personal narrative, claiming it made a crucial contribution to Nigeria’s historical documentation.
“Today, pages will be turned, memories will speak, and history will find its authentic voice,” Adesuyi said.
“This is no ordinary book presentation. Rather, we are here to share the author’s story of an era and the enduring power of character. I repeat: character, character, character. This country needs character.”
Adesuyi noted that Gowon deliberately chose to recount his experiences without bitterness or judgment.
“General Yakubu Gowon has chosen to address history without judgment,” he said.
“As he repeatedly told us while working on this book, it is all about telling his truth. And as we all know, truth is always a defense.”
He emphasized the importance of preserving historical records, warning that failure to document events allows distorted narratives to thrive.
