Former Nigerian military head of state, General Yakubu Gowon (rtd), has described the Nigerian civil war as the most challenging period of his life, stating that the decisions he made during the conflict were driven by a desire to preserve national unity, not by hatred.
Gowon, who led the country from 1966 to 1975 and was at the helm during the civil war from July 6, 1967, to January 15, 1970, spoke on Saturday at the convention of the Christian Men’s Fellowship, Anglican Diocese of Abuja.
“I always remember the civil war. It was the most difficult period of my life,” he said. “It was not my choice, but I had to be there, and had to do what I did in order to keep this country together. It was never hatred against any people, I can assure you.”
Gowon urged Nigerians to embrace forgiveness, reconciliation, and unity, stressing the need to rise above ethnic and religious divides in pursuit of national healing and progress.
Reflecting on his post-war life and principles, the 89-year-old statesman said prayer and a commitment to fairness have guided his actions.
“As far as this heart is concerned, everything that I do, it is through prayers. I ask God to help me to do the right thing the way He thinks it should be done, with love and respect for all the people,” he said.
He also echoed the post-war mantra that defined the federal government’s reconciliation effort: “No victor, no vanquished.”
Gowon, who has remained a symbol of unity and elder statesmanship in Nigeria, added that the country has made notable progress since the end of the civil war over five decades ago.
At the convention, he was presented with a lifetime integrity and achievement award in recognition of his service and commitment to the nation.