Former Nigerian military leader General Yakubu Gowon says he decided to release his long-awaited autobiography to give Nigerians a clearer understanding of the difficult decisions made during his years in office, particularly throughout the Nigerian Civil War.
The memoir, scheduled for public presentation on May 19 in Abuja, offers Gowon’s personal reflections on leadership, national unity and governance during one of Nigeria’s most turbulent historical periods.
Speaking ahead of the launch, Gowon said the book was not intended to reopen old divisions but to explain the reasoning behind policies and actions often interpreted by others over the decades.
According to him, the autobiography reflects a story shaped by conviction, responsibility and the realities of governing during moments of national crisis.
The publication traces his early life, military journey and rise to power in 1966 during a period of political instability. It also provides detailed accounts of the 30-month Nigerian Civil War, a conflict that continues to influence political and historical discussions in the country.
President Bola Tinubu is expected to attend the launch as special guest of honour, while former Defence Minister General Theophilus Danjuma will unveil the 881-page publication.
Havilah Group, the publisher of the memoir, described the project as an important contribution to preserving Nigeria’s political and historical record.
The launch ceremony in Abuja is expected to attract senior government officials, diplomats, military veterans and political leaders from across Nigeria.
Gowon, who led Nigeria from 1966 until his removal from office in 1975, later pursued academic and humanitarian work, including peacebuilding and public health advocacy through the Yakubu Gowon Centre and the Nigeria Prays initiative.
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