Former President Olusegun Obasanjo praised General Yakubu Gowon’s new memoir, My Life of Duty and Allegiance, calling it an important addition to Nigeria’s history. He also said he looks forward to reading it.
The autobiography, launched in Abuja on May 19, tells the story of Gowon’s life, his military career, and his thoughts on key events that shaped Nigeria, such as the civil war from 1967 to 1970.
At 91, Gowon is one of Nigeria’s longest-living former leaders, having led the country from 1966 to 1975.
Obasanjo, who was Chief of Staff under General Murtala Muhammed and later became head of state, told journalists at his home that he was “anxious to get a copy.”
He described Gowon as a leader who served during some of Nigeria’s most challenging times after independence.
“Giving us his account of events is very important, and he must be appreciated for the courage to do that,” Obasanjo said.
Obasanjo was not at the book’s public launch, but he said he sent Gowon a personal letter of apology. The letter, dated May 4, stated that he could not attend due to international commitments.
As Co-chair of the InterAction Council, Obasanjo was in Hong Kong for a meeting at the same time as the launch. “I wrote an earnest letter of apology to General Gowon, my Oga, for my inability to attend,” he said.
The memoir shares Gowon’s views on Nigeria’s early years, his leadership during the war, and his work in rebuilding and developing the country afterwards.
Obasanjo sees the book as more than just a personal story; he believes it is a national resource that will help future generations understand the decisions, challenges, and sacrifices that shaped Nigeria.