“My Love for Nigeria Is Beyond Question” – Gowon
Former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon (retd.), has reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to
Nigeria’s unity, declaring that his love for the country is “beyond question.”
Gowon made the statement on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, during the public presentation of his long-
awaited autobiography titled Life of Duty and Allegiance in Abuja.
The 91-year-old leader, who ruled Nigeria from 1966 to 1975 and led the country through the Nigerian
Civil War (1967–1970), used the occasion to address lingering misconceptions about his legacy and
restate his deep patriotism.
“I cannot say it loudly enough that my belief in the long-term survival of Nigeria is total because my love
for the country and its people is beyond question,” Gowon declared.
He explained that the autobiography was written primarily to correct misinformation and provide a first-
hand account of critical periods in Nigeria’s history, rather than to reopen old wounds.
Gowon emphasised themes of reconciliation, national unity, and forgiveness, drawing from his post-war
“No Victor, No Vanquished” policy and the three Rs — Reconciliation, Rehabilitation, and
Reconstruction.
The book launch was chaired by former President Goodluck Jonathan, who commended Gowon for his
leadership during one of Nigeria’s most challenging periods.
Jonathan described Gowon as a leader who stood firmly for Nigeria’s unity and urged younger
generations to learn from his experiences.
First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu and other prominent Nigerians also attended, with many speakers
describing Gowon’s love for Nigeria as “infectious” and his commitment to peace as exemplary.
Gowon, who turned 91 earlier in 2026, reflected on his childhood, military career, and decades of post-
office peace-building work through initiatives like Nigeria Prays.
He expressed optimism about Nigeria’s future despite current challenges, stating that the country has
the resilience to overcome any obstacle.
This is Gowon’s first major public reflection in decades. His autobiography, spanning over 880 pages, is
being hailed as a vital historical document that offers insights into leadership, the civil war, and nation-
building.
Political observers see his latest intervention as a timely call for unity and responsible leadership amid ongoing national debates.
General Yakubu Gowon remains one of Nigeria’s most enduring elder statesmen, and his continued
advocacy for national cohesion continues to resonate across generations.
By Oyinkansola Shittu.
