Tinubu, Jonathan, IBB, Dangote Lead Tributes as Gowon Unveils Memoir in Abuja
Tinubu, Jonathan, IBB, Dangote Lead Tributes as Gowon Unveils Memoir in Abuja
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, former Nigerian leaders, top military figures, and leading business moguls gathered in Abuja to honour former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, during the public presentation of his autobiography titled “My Life of Duty and Allegiance.”
The event attracted prominent dignitaries including former Presidents Goodluck Jonathan and Gen. Ibrahim Babangida (IBB), former Head of State Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar, elder statesman Gen. Theophilus Danjuma, and Africa’s richest businessman, Aliko Dangote.
Represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, President Tinubu described Gowon’s memoir as an important national document capable of guiding future generations on leadership, reconciliation, and national unity. He urged Nigerians to preserve the country’s historical memory and learn from past experiences to strengthen democracy and national cohesion.
Tinubu praised Gowon’s famous post-civil war declaration of “No victor, no vanquished,” noting that the policy helped stabilize Nigeria after the civil war and promoted reconciliation across ethnic and regional divides. He also commended Gowon’s contributions to the establishment of ECOWAS and the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), describing both as enduring pillars of national integration and regional cooperation.
During the fundraising session at the launch, Gen. Theophilus Danjuma reportedly donated ₦3 billion in support of the project, while Dangote pledged ₦500 million. Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang also donated ₦250 million toward the initiative.
Speaking at the occasion, Gowon said the autobiography was not written to attack or judge anyone but to present his personal account of historical events that shaped Nigeria. The former military leader also warned politicians against “do-or-die” politics ahead of the 2027 general elections, urging Nigerians to remain committed to democratic stability and peaceful coexistence.
The event also featured reflections on Gowon’s years in power, his role during the Nigerian Civil War, and his contributions to post-war reconciliation, reconstruction, and national unity. Religious leaders, monarchs, senior government officials, diplomats, and retired military officers were also in attendance.
