On the 19th of October, 2023, Nigerians will roll out the drums in celebration of a truly remarkable personage, who has left an indelible mark in the annals African history – General Yakubu Gowon, Nigeria’s former Head of State and Commander-in-Chief of Armed Forces. On this auspicious occasion, as the beloved General celebrates his 90th birthday, it is a time to reflect on the life and legacy of a man who has been rightly hailed as the “Abraham Lincoln of Africa,” Father of Nigerian Unity, Founding Father of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), Benefactor of the Caribbean, etc.
Gowon’s journey to greatness began in the humble town of Garram, in Kanke Local Government Area, Plateau State, where he was born and Wusasa, Zaria, where he grew from infancy. Born to a Christian family steeped in the values of service and devotion, his father, Pa Yohanna Gowon, and his mother, Mama Kurnyan Gowon, instilled in him a deep sense of faith and a commitment to the betterment of his fellow Nigerians. These formative years would lay the foundation for the principled leadership that would come to define Gowon’s political career.
Gowon’s innate leadership qualities were evident from an early age, as he excelled both academically and athletically at the prestigious Barewa College in Zaria. It was there that he honed his skills as a student leader, foreshadowing the pivotal role he would one day play in shaping the destiny of the nation.
The young Gowon’s military prowess was further refined at the renowned Sandhurst Military Academy in England, where he completed his military training, earning the respect and admiration of his peers and superiors. His exceptional leadership abilities were put to the ultimate test when, at the tender age of just 31, he assumed the mantle of Nigeria’s Head of State and Commander-in-Chief, becoming the youngest person to ever lead the nation.
Gowon’s ascension to power came at a tumultuous time in Nigeria’s history, marked by the bloody counter-coup and the horrific ethnic pogroms that followed. Yet, it was during these trying times that the true mettle of this remarkable leader was revealed. With a steady hand and an unwavering commitment to national unity, Gowon navigated these treacherous waters, his famous mantra, “To keep Nigeria one is a task that must be done,” echoing throughout the nation and inspiring a generation of Nigerians to stand united in the face of adversity.
Gowon’s vision for a united Nigeria was manifested in his bold and pragmatic decision to create 12 new states, a move that addressed regional imbalances and gave a voice to the country’s diverse minority groups. This action coupled with his dodged determination to heal the wounds afflicted by the civil war mirrored the efforts of another titan of leadership, Abraham Lincoln, the 16th US President, who had faced a similar challenge in the aftermath of the American Civil War. Both leaders understood that true reconciliation and lasting peace could only be achieved through inclusivity and compromise – a lesson that has stood the test of time.
Indeed, Gowon’s policy of “no victor, no vanquished” after the Nigerian Civil War exemplified his remarkable statesmanship and largeness of heart. Rather than pursue a path of retribution, as he was urged by the militant elements in the Army, he chose to prioritize national healing and the rebuilding of the nation. This compassionate approach, reminiscent of Lincoln’s spirit of reconciliation, has cemented Gowon’s legacy as a true visionary who recognized that the strength of a nation lies in its ability to rise above the divisions of the past.
Throughout his tenure, Gowon’s deep Christian faith and unwavering moral compass were evident in his actions. His benevolence, forgiving nature, and humble demeanor endeared him to the Nigerian people, even as they occasionally proved to be double-edged swords. The decision to excuse a defaulting war commander, for instance, while rooted in Gowon’s desire for unity and reconciliation, later came back to haunt him.
He demonstrated his compassion even abroad. On the tour of the Caribbean island of Grenada, Gowon discovered that the workers were on strike. Upon asking he was told it was due to months of unpaid salaries to public service workers by the government. Gowon took instant pity on the situation underwriting the entire bill amounting to about $20 million.
Yet, even as his power came to an end through a coup while he was away from the country, Gowon once again captivated the world with his infectious magnanimity. At a press conference in Kampala, Uganda, the General announced the change of government in Nigeria, pledging his personal loyalty and urging Nigerians to support the new leadership. This act of selflessness and commitment to the nation’s wellbeing cemented Gowon’s reputation as a true statesman, a leader who placed the interests of his people above his own.
As the world celebrates the 90th birthday of this remarkable leader, it is a testament to his enduring legacy and the profound impact he has had on the African continent and beyond. Through his visionary leadership, compassionate approach to reconciliation, and unwavering dedication to the betterment of his nation, Gowon has cemented his place as one of the world’s genuine statesmen – a true “Abraham Lincoln of Africa,” as aptly described by the renowned political scientist, Professor Ali Mazrui.
In recognition of Gowon’s immense contributions to the unity and progress of Nigeria, we humbly urge President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to bestow upon him the highest honors befitting a leader of his stature. We propose the following to the President:
(a) Proclaim General Yakubu Gowon as the “Father of Nigerian Unity,” a title that aptly captures his pivotal role in preserving the territorial integrity and social cohesion of the nation.
(b) Issue commemorative stamps in his honor, ensuring that his visage and legacy are etched into the collective memory of the Nigerian people.
(c) Name a prestigious federal university after General Yakubu Gowon, providing future generations of Nigerians with the opportunity to learn from the wisdom and example of this towering figure.
(d) Erect a national monument in either Lagos or Abuja, the nation’s capital, that serves as a lasting tribute to Gowon’s unwavering dedication to the unity and prosperity of Nigeria.
As we gather to celebrate the 90th birthday of this remarkable leader, let us be inspired by the shining example of General Yakubu Gowon – a true titan of African leadership, a unifying force in a time of great upheaval, and a model of the selfless and visionary statesmanship that all leaders should aspire to. May his legacy continue to guide and inspire the people of Nigeria and the African continent for generations to come.
*Mr. Ishaku, author and essayist, is a member of the Editorial Advisory Board of Independent newspapers
