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Tag: Gowon

  • Make national interest priority, Gowon tells North’s leaders

    Make national interest priority, Gowon tells North’s leaders

    • Ex-Head of State advises Shekarau-led group

    Members of the League of Northern Democrats (LND) yesterday got a candid advice from former Head of State Gen. Yakubu Gowon – they should jettison sectional interests and champion the cause that serves Nigeria’s collective interest.

    The former leader told the North’s political elite that the sustenance of the on-going democracy rests on the region.

    He urged the leaders of the region to prioritise the nation’s collective good in its pursuits.

    The LND is led by a former Kano State Governor, Senator Ibrahim Shekarau.

    The former Head of State spoke when members of the group visited him in Abuja.

    The group had similarly visited former President Olusegun Obasanjo in Abeokuta.

    Shekarau is the convener of the the LND, made up of more than 200 North’s political leaders, mostly former top government officials and retired military officers.

    The group has hinted of a plan to push for a presidential candidate from the North in 2027.

    Gowon said: “My position has always been that whatever the North does must serve the greater interest of Nigeria.”

    According to him, his professional background shaped his apolitical stance.

    “I am not affiliated with any political party. My allegiance is solely to Nigeria,” he affirmed.

    Gowon was Head of State between 1966 and 1975. A symbol of national unity, he led the country through a three year civil war and declared “no victor, no vanquished” after the conflict.

    His administration, apart from pursuing the programmes of rehabilitation, reconstruction and reconciliation (3Rs), set up the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) in 1973 to foster integration.

    Gowon also created additional states to give people of the diverse ethnic group a sense of belonging.

    Reflecting on his decision to create states during his tenure, he said it was meant to prevent regional dominance and encourage unity.

    He noted that fears of disintegration loomed heavily in the past, with secessionist sentiments rising in various regions, including the North, East and West.

    Gowon said: “At one point, people believed the North wanted to secede, just as similar claims were made about the East and the West.

    “If we had allowed it, what would we call ourselves today? We might have ended up as separate nations—Yoruba, Igbo, Hausa, or otherwise.”

    Read Also: Gowon/Ojukwu: Who was wrong?

    He commended the LND for addressing the North’s challenges, but cautioned that regional cooperation should not compromise Nigeria’s unity.

    He stressed: “The division of the North into states was meant to preserve national unity. Whatever you do, always prioritise the nation’s interest.

     “I am not affiliated with any political party. My only allegiance is to Nigeria. My profession (military) shaped my belief in serving the country above all else, and I’ve avoided partisan politics.

    “I encourage others to think beyond regional interests and focus on Nigeria as a whole. Differences in opinion are natural, but they should never prevent us from working together to resolve issues for the good of the country.

    “I’ve always believed in taking the best from all ideologies, be it socialism, capitalism, or others, and applying them for the greater good. During my time in government, we valued diverse perspectives, but decisions were always made in the interest of the people and the nation.”

     Gowon expressed hope that LND mission was not just about returning to the old thinking where the north prioritises the north, the west prioritises the west, and the east prioritises the east, until the Mid-West emerged to think for itself.

     He said: “From your speech, I understand that this is your intention—to ensure the North, in its current state, focuses on national unity. It was for this reason that I supported the creation of multiple states, to prevent any one region from becoming too powerful and threatening the country’s unity.

     “This perspective was borne out of extensive discussions with political leaders, chiefs, and various groups. The North had to make sacrifices to address fears of domination by one region, especially given the size and population of the North.

     “At that time, there was considerable anxiety from the South about the North’s dominance, which nearly led to calls for secession from all regions—the West, the East, and even the North. This deeply worried me. I was born in Nigeria, raised in Nigeria, and served a profession that represented the country’s collective interest.

     “This fear of disintegration weighed heavily on me. I hesitate to say more, as I might risk offending someone here.”

    Gowon said Nigeria’s population and diversity are strengths, adding that if citizens can unite despite their differences, they can build the Nigeria they all envision.

    He added: “The North is incredibly diverse, encompassing various tribes, such as the Igbo-speaking communities in Benue and the Yoruba presence there as well. These differences enrich our region and should encourage unity rather than division.

    “The Northern identity, however, is often associated with the Hausa-Fulani. Even within that label, there is significant diversity. For instance, among the Angas people, we have distinct names like ‘Ngas,’ and they call us “Ngali.” The cultural nuances are fascinating and a testament to our rich heritage.

    “Unfortunately, I feel saddened by the challenges currently facing the North, such as the emergence of groups like the Lukarawa from Mali. Their activities have only created more problems for us.

    “Nonetheless, I’m honoured and delighted by your visit. Your introductions touched me deeply. Many of you are descendants of respected leaders such as Tafawa Balewa and Shagari. I see this gathering as a continuation of their legacy.”

    Shekarau clarified the group’s mission, emphasising that it is not an opposition platform but a movement aimed at complementing the government’s efforts to address the North’s challenges.

    He said: “The LND is not an opposition group. We are not here to undermine or challenge the government but to complement its efforts. If the North thrives, Nigeria prospers. If the North falters, the entire nation bears the weight of its collapse.”

    He outlined the challenges facing the region, including poverty, insecurity, disunity, illiteracy, and drug addiction.

    Shekarau added that the LND has started engaging key Northern stakeholders, including the Northern Elders Forum (NEF), Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), and Middle Belt Forum (MBF), to foster regional unity and collaboration.

    He said: “Our ultimate aim is to build bridges that unite the North and extend hands of fellowship to the South, thereby complementing your commitment to solidifying Nigeria as one indivisible entity.”

    Shekarau said LND would organise a Northern Nigerian Political Summit in Kaduna to consolidate its efforts.

  • Gowon, Obasanjo, Buhari

    Gowon, Obasanjo, Buhari

    A former Nigerian leader just blundered onto the Chinua Achebe Leadership Forum, at Yale University, USA, squealing state capture and screaming insane governance!

    He wasn’t Gen. Yakubu Gowon, “the nation’s poster face of probity in public life”, by Catholic Bishop Matthew Kukah’s estimation.

    Neither was he former President Muhammadu Buhari (PMB), who the northern street had long canonized “Mai Gaskiya” — the Honest One — even while still alive.

    It’s rather the ever-noisome Gen. Olusegun Obasanjo, ex-head of state and two-term elected president, who loves to row, thinking his eternal screeching would bury his rot!

    General Yakubu Gowon (90), General Olusegun Obasanjo, GOO, (87) and Major-General Muhammadu Buhari, GMB, (81) were all former military heads of state.

    GOO postures as the holy Pope of this best forgotten military era of sheer venality.  Yet, he stands out, like a sore and rotten thumb, for gaming the state for self-benefits. 

    His regime’s Operation Feed the Nation (OFN) morphed into his post-military power honeypot: Obasanjo Farms Nigeria (OFN) — with a fulsome harvest of choice lands, all over the country! 

    Ay, the same Land Use Decree, forged to drive his regime’s OFN, also came in handy to drive his personal OFN!

    Read Also: Mike Bamiloye criticises female ministers who prioritise ministry over family

    Gowon and Buhari sit on a moral crest, though military rule was rotten — rare drivers on Army rule’s straight and narrow way.  Still, they grate at no one.

    Yet,  Obasanjo galloped into the Chinua Achebe USA show, wearing his OFN medal, screaming “state capture!” A global self-trial was never more severe!  But the irony was totally lost on him!

    Clearly, Obasanjo has learnt nothing, in decorum or modesty or humility or probity — either from Gowon, his senior, or from Buhari, his junior.

    But he wants to teach everyone the ABC of honest leadership.  Did Fela, the immortal Abami Eda himself, just growl from the grave: Tisa, no teach me nonsense?

    Gowon’s bid to be elected president sank with General Ibrahim Babangida’s transition to nowhere, with the ever-flippant Obasanjo even mocking the doomed run of his old commander-in-chief.

    But the hypocrisy in GOO bobbed up with the panicky Army Arrangement that thrust him forward for President in 1999.  He didn’t ask his sponsors what he had asked Gowon: what did Gowon forget in Dodan Barracks to go pick up?  But dived into a self- serving cant: how many presidents would you make out of me?  Sheer humbug!

    In contrast, GMB’s unassailable probity, even among wild military-era thieves, paved his way to becoming PMB, like Obasanjo, for two terms.  In 2015, Nigerians craved an upright superman to help clean up the Obasanjo-led PDP-era mess.

    Again, to boot: while Obasanjo exited power in 2007, clutching another illicit medal — the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library and Resort — PMB bequeathed the Lagos-Ibadan medium-gauge rail, with its Wole Soyinka Abeokuta Station virtually facing off, in stern rebuke, Obasanjo’s private gold mine of OOPL! 

    Between quiet but honest public service and loud but rotten self-service, nothing could be starker!  After PMB and Obasanjo are long gone, the WS station and OOPL, would scream, for posterity, the real state captor — and a ruthless one at that!

    But beyond OOPL and WS Train Station, Obasanjo comes up short, against PMB, on many fronts.  Yet, PMB is as taciturn as Obasanjo is garrulous — the one over golden traits, the other over vice packaged as virtue.

    After two terms as president, Obasanjo craved an illicit third. At a similar juncture, PMB declared he couldn’t wait to get as far away from Abuja as possible!

    After the great third term crash — which he denies till this day — the Ebora Owu’s response was an election he bragged would be “do or die”; and indeed, it was do or die: very gory, in every material particular: in hewn limbs, bashed skulls, lost lives!

    Contrast that to PMB’s declared loyalty to his party, but telling people to freely vote their choice; and to the security agencies to guarantee the vote.

    As president, PMB delivered far much more in infrastructure (even with a parched pocket), and gave agriculture a rebirth, away from the reckless food imports of the Obasanjo years — an APC-era legacy President Tinubu has followed and reinforced. 

    Contrast that with Obasanjo paying US$ 12 billion, in crude windfall, to buy “debt forgiveness”, while critical road arteries — Lagos-Ibadan expressway, Second Niger Bridge, etc; not to mention modernized rail — wailed for attention. 

    As outgoing President, Obasanjo told the INEC chair, the best forgotten Prof. Maurice Iwu, to help deliver his “do or die” polls — a chilling nightmare for the opposition.

    PMB’s call, at a similar juncture, was on INEC chair, Prof. Mahmoud Yakubu, to push technology — the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BIVAS), which asserts genuine voters, by reading the permanent voter card (PVC) with its in-built computer chip; and the INEC Result-viewing (IReV) portal — to achieve better elections.

    That delivered the closest election in Nigerian political history.  But it also triggered wild but empty bad-mouthing from the loser camps, well represented by Peter Obi and co, at the Achebe Yale University show. 

    That explained Obasanjo’s open traducement of Prof. Yakubu; and his reckless call for the sack of the INEC chair.  If Yakubu is fired for delivering 2023, what then would have befallen Obasanjo’s Iwu, for his eternal disgrace of 2007? Banished for life?

    It’s clear: despite his constant huffing and puffing; and empty pontifications, Obasanjo has little sense of fairness; talk less of justice.  But God is great!  As he opens his mouth to judge others, he condemns himself even more!

    And, yes: post-power, Obasanjo pulls down everyone.  PMB supports his successors.

    So, if the Ebora Owu came so venomously after “Baba-go-slow” (PMB) and “Emilokan” (President Bola Tinubu), it’s again his patented opportunism to milk people’s pains to hawk counterfeit empathy. 

    There’s nothing to it — except for President Tinubu to know the pains of his policy reforms: removing petrol subsidy and floating the Naira, bite hard. He should move fast to tweak them.

    Many a charlatan would milk extant pains for instant political gains — and so would the present order too, were they in opposition! 

    But therein lies Obasanjo’s big fall — from a supposed statesman to a cheap, hustling politician.  But has he ever scaled such noble heights, with his eternal penchant to pull others down?

    It’s instructive, though: Obasanjo’s umpteenth pastime pushed the Tinubu order to benchmark themselves from 2015, rather than from 2023.  Had they been doing that, the difference between the PDP and APC eras would have been crystal clear, leaving little space for well-known Obasanjo cynical howls, and sundry opposition opportunism.

    Not a few marvel at Obasanjo’s many unforced, self-slaying outbursts.  It’s a purgatory: for early life rots, spinned as strengths, to which he is fated.  Pity!

    Ripples goes on leave

    It’s that season again to go rest and re-tool.  It’s been a fast-paced year and thanks for being part of that journey.  See you, by God’s grace, in 2025.

  • Gowon @ 90: Could history absolve him? (2)

    Gowon @ 90: Could history absolve him? (2)

    Truth remains that both Gowon and Ojukwu made the resolution of the crises leading to the civil war impossible, but while Ojukwu could use the July 29 coup and the pogroms that followed as a pretext for his actions, Gowon had none, save for the fact that he was merely a “Yes” man for our British overlords. Even if Ojukwu wanted a kingdom of his own, as is mooted by certain scholars, Gowon’s haughty like obstinacy gave much fuel to Ojukwu’s decisions, as he, (Ojukwu) sought to give the East cogent reasons for its secessionist attempt.

    In retrospect, Gowon had accused Ironsi of wanting to force the federation into a Unitary system, a major reason for the bloodbath of July 66, but the same Gowon was a member of the Supreme Military Council, SMC which acted as the clearing house for all of the policies and decrees enacted by the Ironsi administration, matter of fact the SMC had more Northerners in its fold than Southerners, how then the likes of Gowon could glibly talk of Ironsi imposing such a policy on him and his accomplices should baffle any right thinking human being. Ironsi, perhaps might have being a bit naive but surely the likes of Gowon cannot wash their hands totally off such a decree.

    Aburi offered the nation, some promise of lasting peace. Accounts of such event as illustrated by the scholars such as John de St Jorre in his book ‘The Nigerian Civil War’, describes General Gowon again as behaving like some cavalier soldier, notwithstanding the loss of innocent lives and properties had sought simply to wish away such gory occurrences. It is believed that Gowon had expected Ojukwu to simply banter away whatever real concerns the Eastern Region had as regards the previous incidents and the security of the Easterners, to him it seemed that the lives lost didn’t really matter for as long as they were all in the saddle of power and had shared some form of camaraderie, Ojukwu, who’s Region had borne the brunt of the killing spree was definitely not on the same boat with Gowon.

    The decisions reached at Aburi were expected to be honoured too but Nigerians know that General Gowon did renege on such agreement. Yes, Ojukwu may have ambushed him at Aburi, yes, Ojukwu may have outsmarted Gowon and his six other counterparts by insisting on regional autonomy and getting ironclad concessions on such and other matters, such as the exclusion of the use of force and the repealing of all decrees which tended to over centralize power at the expense of the agreed regional autonomy, however, was the flat refusal to implement what was actually agreed upon at Aburi in preference for what was never discussed nor agreed upon the way for Gowon to go? If he simply felt that the end result of what was agreed upon at Aburi was detrimental to the health of the federation then he should have initiated another round of negotiations rather than attempt to browbeat Ojukwu and the Eastern Region into submission, forcing the latter to declare the Eastern Region as the sovereign state of Biafra. Had Gowon the moral courage to seek renegotiation, even using the adhoc conference to achieve this, such an example would naturally serve as a salutary lesson for the future. Intoxicated with power he rather unleashed the civil war and the legacy of the cult of violence which has pervaded the nation’s psyche till this very day.

    Today, the demand for a Biafran Nation is presently in the offing bearing strong links with  its past existence, perhaps had Gowon averted such a declaration, who knows what may have followed? Definitely not a senseless civil war.

    Gowon still deserves some commendation for his Lincolnesque approach after the civil war or should I say his adaptation of such. However his announcement of “No Victor, No Vanquished” remains hollow: the millions who lost their lives, properties and even savings were indeed the vanquished while Gowon and his administration in Lagos were indeed the victors.

    Away from the civil war, the General Gowon administration was also to introduce corruption as an official practice in Nigeria. We first became witnesses to millionaire officers and officials in that administration. Military Governors in the various states merely enriched themselves to the consternation of the public, but then a trend had been set and successive administrations attempted to do ‘better’ than the Gowon administration.

    Read Also: Gowon: Hero with apostolic leadership character

    We remember his refusal to handover power to civilians as he had initially promised the nation by 1975(Gowon naturally reneged on so many things) without even fixing a firm date for the nation’s return to democracy. The cement armada, the gross examples of government inefficiency and the famous quote while in Jamaica stating that “ Money was not our problem but how to spend it”. At that time Nigeria’s out of school children stood at 9 million children, while nearly 69 percent of the nation’s population then which stood at 68.5 million people had little or no access to quality healthcare!

    The confidence in Gowon’s administration had by 1975 become so depleted that his own kinsman in the person of Colonel Joe Garba who also happened to be his Commander Brigade of Guards announced his overthrow while Gowon was attending the OAU summit in Kampala, Uganda.

    The fractious state of the Nigerian nation and its purported challenges faced even in these very days all lie with the Gowon administration, had he sought some lasting solutions to what the Aburi Accord offered, even some amendments, perhaps the Nigerian nation would not be in this permanent state of wanting to self destruct!

  • Gowon’s sterling leadership an inspiration, says Tinubu

    Gowon’s sterling leadership an inspiration, says Tinubu

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has hailed former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, as the “father of national infrastructure and unity”.

    According to the President, the sterling performance and the integrity of the former head of state is an inspiration to his government.

    He spoke at a banquet organized at Aso Villa Conference Centre in Abuja on Saturday night, one of the activities making the 90th birthday of Gen. Gowon

    Gen. Gowon was Nigeria’s military Head of State between 1966 and 1975.

    He was the war leader, who led Nigeria to three-year civil war.

    After the war, he declared no victor, no vanquished.

    He introduced the three Rs  – Reconstruction, Rehabilitation and Reconciliation.

    The civil war ended in January 1970.

    In 1973 Gen. Gowon introduced National Youth Service Corp (NYSC) to enable young Nigerians after graduation to work in other parts of the country other than their place of birth.

    President Tinubu, represented by Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, praised Gowon’s enduring legacy.

    According to the President, Gowon’s leadership and vision have left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s history, laying a solid foundation for national infrastructure and unity.

    He said the former Head of State’s commitment to reconciliation and peace, exemplified by his “no victor, no vanquished” philosophy after the civil war, continues to inspire Nigerians today.

    Tinubu recalled that assuming leadership at just 31, Gowon demonstrated exceptional resilience, humility, and visionary leadership during a tumultuous period in the nation’s history.

    He added that the nonagenarian’s remarkable journey has inspired generations, and his legacy serves as a beacon for future leaders.

    President Tinubu acknowledged Gowon’s sterling example, which encourages those in government to serve with integrity and dedication, adding that his impact on Nigeria’s growth and development is undeniable, and his 90th birthday celebration was a testament to his lasting influence.

    Read Also: Gowon’s enduring legacy inspires generations of military personnel, says CDS

    “Your sterling example lights the path for us in government, in encouraging us to strive relentlessly to serve our fatherland, with integrity and dedication.

    “Indeed, you can rightly be called the Father of national infrastructure and unity, having laid the solid foundation for the systems that support our country today.

    “One of the most beautiful legacies left behind after the civil war was your philosophy of ‘no victor, no vanquished.’ This powerful mantra fostered an atmosphere of peace and reconciliation that many cherish and strive for today.

    “Retired Gen Yakubu Gowon, you are a remarkable figure in the history of Nigeria and a testament to resilience, humility and visionary leadership. As we honour you today, we reflect on your incredible journey that has inspired and continues to inspire generations of Nigerians. At 31, you took the monumental role of leading our dear nation at a difficult time as a brilliant officer”, he said.

    The President lauded Gowon’s leadership approach  applauding his profound wisdom and dedication.

    “You have always moderated us towards moderation and dialogue. Remarkable with us is the importance of unity within the ECOWAS and beyond, I am immensely grateful for your wise counsel,” he said.

    The President said that his vision, which transcends borders and birthed ECOWAS, an initiative established in 1975, has continued to strengthen ties among nations in the West African subregion.

    President Tinubu also acknowledged the unwavering commitment of Gowon towards peace, harmony and stability of Nigeria through his pet project, ‘Nigeria Prays’.

    He added that the programme has further enhanced and continued to advocate for religious tolerance while nurturing a spirit of togetherness among Nigerians.

    “We remain grateful for the lessons you taught us. Through your ‘Nigeria Prays’ programme, you have shown your unwavering commitment to peace, harmony and stability in Nigeria;  advocating for religious tolerance while nurturing a spirit of togetherness among Nigerians.

    “In your retirement, you have remained a beacon of knowledge and wisdom. Your continued quest for learning reminds us that age and status are no barrier to growth and enlightenment,” he said.

    The President prayed for continued wisdom, good health and many more years for the celebrant to contribute to the ideals he holds dearly.

    Former President Olusegun Obasanjo, who recalled the creations of Gowon such as the National Youth Service Corps, Unity Schools, Federal Universities and Polytechnics, and ECOWAS, amongst many others, added that most important is his contribution to national unity.

    Further extolling General Gowon as his mentor, Obasanjo acknowledged the roles the celebrant played in his life, including his sacrifices and commitment to a more united Nigeria.

    “Some people say situation turns out a leader or situation makes a leader or a leader makes situation,  whichever way you want to look at it, we had a difficult situation and at a very young age of 31, going to 32, that makes you the youngest Nigerian that has ever occupied that position.

    “What you achieved is just not your effort, but the efforts and sacrifice of many Nigerians who worked with you in the military, whether on the Nigerian side or the so-called Biafran side. All those who died in civil war made supreme sacrifice.

    “They made sacrifices that made us have Nigeria unity today; it doesn’t matter which side they died; the sacrifice that those who worked with you, whether military or not, and the leadership that you have made us to have a united Nigeria today,” he said. 

    Obasanjo urged General Gowon to continue in prayers of thanksgiving for Nigeria, adding: “Until you stop breathing, your life will continue to be dedicated to service to humanity and service to God.”

    Former President Muhammadu Buhari, represented by former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha, acknowledged the unifying roles of Gen Gowon, testifying to what he described as private wise counsel towards the good of the country.

    “As a military Head of State and democratically elected President of Nigeria, I can testify to his private wise counsel all the time to the good of our country”, he said.

  • Gowon celebrated as ‘Father of national infrastructure, unity’, at banquet

    Gowon celebrated as ‘Father of national infrastructure, unity’, at banquet

    … As Tinubu joins others to highlight former leader’s influence on Nigeria

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has hailed former Head of State, retired General Yakubu Gowon, as the “Father of national infrastructure and unity”, on the occasion of his 90th birthday anniversary.

    Speaking on Saturday night as Special Guest of Honour at a banquet held in celebration of Gowon’s birthday at the State House Conference Hall, Abuja, President Tinubu, represented by Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, praised Gowon’s enduring legacy.

    According to the President, Gowon’s leadership and vision have left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s history, laying a solid foundation for national infrastructure and unity.

    He said the former Head of State’s commitment to reconciliation and peace, exemplified by his “no victor, no vanquished” philosophy after the Nigerian Civil War, continues to inspire Nigerians today.

    Tinubu recalled that assuming leadership at just 31, Gowon demonstrated exceptional resilience, humility, and visionary leadership during a tumultuous period in the nation’s history.

    He added that the nanogenarian’s remarkable journey has inspired generations, and his legacy serves as a beacon for future leaders.

    President Tinubu acknowledged Gowon’s sterling example, which encourages those in government to serve with integrity and dedication, adding that his impact on Nigeria’s growth and development is undeniable, and his 90th birthday celebration was a testament to his lasting influence.

    “Your sterling example lights the path for us in government, encouraging us to strive relentlessly to serve our fatherland, with integrity and dedication.

    “Indeed, you can rightly be called the Father of national infrastructure and unity, having laid the solid foundation for the systems that support our country today.

    “One of the most beautiful legacies left behind after the civil war was your philosophy of ‘no victor, no vanquished’, this powerful mantra fostered an atmosphere of peace and reconciliation that many cherish and strive for today.

    “Retired Gen Yakubu Gowon, you are a remarkable figure in the history of Nigeria and a testament to resilience, humility, and visionary leadership. As we honour you today, we reflect on your incredible journey that has inspired and continues to inspire generations of Nigerians. At 31, you took the monumental role of leading our dear nation at a difficult time as a brilliant officer”, he said.

    The President lauded Gowon’s leadership approach applauding his profound wisdom and dedication.

    “You have always moderated us towards moderation and dialogue. Remarkable with us is the importance of unity within the ECOWAS and beyond, I am immensely grateful for your wise counsel”, he said.

    Read Also: A timeline of Nigeria’s national grid collapses in 2024

    He mentioned that his vision, which transcends borders and birthed ECOWAS, an initiative established in 1975, has continued to strengthen ties among nations in the West African sub-region.

    President Tinubu also acknowledged the unwavering commitment of Gowon towards peace, harmony, and stability of Nigeria through his pet project, ‘Nigeria Prays’.

    He added that the programme has further enhanced and has continued to advocate for religious tolerance while nurturing a spirit of togetherness among Nigerians.

    “We remain grateful for the lessons you taught us, through your ‘Nigeria Prays’ programme you have shown your unwavering commitment to peace, harmony, and stability in Nigeria. Advocating for religious tolerance while nurturing a spirit of togetherness among Nigerians.

    “In your retirement, you have remained a beacon of knowledge and wisdom, your continued quest for learning reminds us that age and status are no barrier to growth and enlightenment”, he said.

    The President prayed for continued wisdom, good health, and many more years for the celebrant to contribute to the ideals he holds dearly.

    Former President, Olusegun Obasanjo, in his remarks, recalled the creations of Rtd. General Gowon such as the National Youth Service Corps, Unity Schools, Federal Universities and Polytechnics, and ECOWAS amongst many others, added that most important is his contribution to National Unity.

    Further extolling General Gowon as his mentor, Obasanjo acknowledged the several roles the celebrant played in his life including his sacrifices and commitment to a more united Nigeria.

    “Some people say situation turn out a leader or situation make a leader or a leader makes the situation, whichever way you want to look at it, we had a difficult situation and at a very young age of 31 going to 32, that makes you the youngest Nigerian that has ever occupied that position.

    “What you achieved is just not your effort, but the efforts and sacrifice of many Nigerians who worked with you in the military, whether on the Nigerian side or the so-called Biafran side, all those who died in civil war made supreme sacrifice.

    “They made sacrifices that made us have Nigeria unity today, it doesn’t matter which side they died. The sacrifice that those who worked with you, whether military or not, and the leadership that you have made us to have a united Nigeria today”, he said.

    Former President Obasanjo urged General Gowon to continue in prayers of thanksgiving for Nigeria, he said that “until you stop breathing, your life will continue to be dedicated to service to humanity and service to God.”

    In his goodwill message, former President Muhammadu Buhari, represented by former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha, acknowledged the unifying roles of Gen Gowon, testifying to what he described as private wise counsel towards the good of the country.

    “As a military Head of State and democratically elected President of Nigeria, I can testify to his private wise counsel all the time to the good of our country”, he said.

  • Gowon, others seek joint efforts to stem Hepatitis prevalence

    Gowon, others seek joint efforts to stem Hepatitis prevalence

    • Nigeria records 14.4m hepatitis B, 1.3m hepatitis C infections

    Former Head of State and National Goodwill Ambassador on the Control/Elimination of Viral Hepatitis in Nigeria, General Yakubu Gowon, has called for concerted efforts to eradicate viral hepatitis in Nigeria.

    Gowon spoke yesterday at the commemoration of this year’s World Hepatitis Day organised by the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare.

    Read Also:Gowon, others express concerns over Hepatitis

    The former Head of State highlighted the critical importance of a unified national response to what he called a public health crisis.

    He said the need to urgently eliminate the disease had become compelling due to its high prevalence in the country and the goal of eliminating it as a public health threat by 2030.

    Gowon acknowledged the government’s efforts but said there was a need to do more to effectively combat the disease and safeguard the health of Nigerians.

  • Gowon, others express concerns over Hepatitis

    Gowon, others express concerns over Hepatitis

    Former Head of State and National Goodwill Ambassador on the Control/Elimination of Viral Hepatitis in Nigeria, Gen. Yakubu Gowon (rtd), has reiterated the urgent need for accelerated efforts to eradicate viral hepatitis in Nigeria.

    Speaking in Abuja on Monday, July 29, at the commemoration of World Hepatitis Day 2024, organised by the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Gowon highlighted the critical importance of a unified national response to the public health crisis.

    He stressed the urgency, given the high prevalence of the disease in the country and the goal of eliminating it as a public health threat by 2030.

    While acknowledging the government’s efforts, Gowon asserted that more must be done to effectively combat the disease and safeguard the health of Nigerians.

    According to reports, the estimated number of people newly infected by viral hepatitis from 2019 to 2022 was 2.5 million and 2.2 million respectively. Of the 2.2 million new infections, 1.2 million were hepatitis B and nearly 1.0 million were hepatitis C.

    Nigeria is one of the ten countries which account for nearly two-thirds of the global burden of viral hepatitis B and C. By 2022, Nigeria had approximately 14.4 million hepatitis B and 1.3 million hepatitis C infections.

    Additionally, Nigeria has an HBV prevalence rate of 8.1% among adults aged 15-64 years (10.3% in men and 5.8% in women). The HCV prevalence rate is 1.1% among adults aged 15-64 years (1.3% in men and 1.0% in women).

    With a high infection rate reported among key populations, Nigeria, with its estimated 200,000 injecting drug users, has a prevalence of HIV of 10.9% (IBBSS 2020), hepatitis B of 6.7%, and hepatitis C of 5.8% (Global State of Harm Reduction Report 2018).

    Represented by Adeyeye Ajayi, the Coordinating Director of Hepatitis at the Centre, Gowon stressed the need for a unified national response to this public health crisis given the concerning prevalence of the disease and the goal of eliminating viral hepatitis as a public health threat by 2030.

    While noting the figures are not impressive, he said Nigeria has not done badly in fighting the disease. “We have made some progress in the fight against this deadly disease, but much more needs to be done.

    “Today, I stand before you to reaffirm our commitment to taking decisive action to eliminate viral hepatitis in Nigeria by the year 2030. This is an ambitious target, but it is achievable if we work together with determination and a sense of urgency.

    “First and foremost, we must increase awareness about viral hepatitis, strengthen our healthcare infrastructure to provide comprehensive services for the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of viral hepatitis, and focus on prevention.

    “Vaccination is our most powerful tool in the fight against hepatitis B, and we must strive to achieve universal coverage for all newborns and high-risk groups; engage all sectors of society in this fight—government agencies, non-governmental organizations, the private sector, and international partners, particularly the World Health Organization (WHO)—all have a role to play and ensure that our policies and programs are backed by robust data and research,” he said.

    Other stakeholders also emphasized the importance of public awareness campaigns, strengthened healthcare infrastructure, preventive measures, and multi-sectoral collaboration, noting that by focusing on these areas, Nigeria’s goal to achieve a hepatitis-free future and ensure quality healthcare for all citizens is achievable.

    The World Health Organization (WHO) Country Representative Walter Mulombo reinforced the global significance of Nigeria’s hepatitis burden, noting the country accounts for a substantial portion of global HBV and HCV infections.

    Mulombo also called for integrated antenatal services, increased hepatitis B birth-dose vaccine coverage, and reduced financial barriers to testing and treatment.

    Stressing the need for swift actions to reach WHO’s elimination goal by 2030, Mulombo, who was represented by the Deputy Country Representative, Alexander Chimbaru, said, “WHO is committed to working with the Government of Nigeria to reduce the burden of viral hepatitis and strengthen responses to all health matters.”

    The Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Ali Pate, who also echoed the stakeholders’ sentiments, emphasized the need for proactive measures to combat hepatitis.

    He said it was in the realization of these goals that the country’s Renewed Hope Agenda focused on improving health governance, population health outcomes, medical industrialization, and regulatory functions.

    While praising ongoing efforts to expand access to vaccination, diagnosis, and treatment, citing successful initiatives in states like Nasarawa and Delta, the Minister, however, acknowledged the need for intensified efforts to find undiagnosed cases, scale up treatment, and prevent new infections.

    “In Nigeria, we have made significant strides in the prevention and treatment of hepatitis.

    “The Federal Ministry of Health through the National HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis and STIs Control Programme (NASCP) has made efforts in expanding access to vaccination, diagnosis, and treatment, thereby reaching thousands of lives.

    “Efforts have also been made in strengthening our surveillance and data collection thus improving our understanding of the disease burden.

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    “All the 36+1 States have established viral hepatitis desks and some states are making strides in expanding access to screening, testing, and treatment of viral hepatitis by decentralizing care to the grassroots.

    “However, we recognize that more needs to be done. We must intensify our efforts to find the missing millions, scale up treatment, and prevent new infections. We must also address the social and economic determinants that exacerbate the disease.

    “We owe it to ourselves, our children, and future generations to act decisively against hepatitis. Let us work together to make Nigeria a beacon of hope in the fight against this disease.

    “We will not rest until every Nigerian has access to quality hepatitis care. We will not rest until we have eliminated viral hepatitis in our country.”

  • Transparent leadership antidote to national devt. – Gowon

    Transparent leadership antidote to national devt. – Gowon

    Former Head of state, retired Gen. Yakubu Gowon, on Monday urged the nation’s leaders to imbibe the transparent and people-oriented leadership style which late president Umaru Yar`Adua made his watchword.

    Gown said this in Abuja at the first Umaru Yar’Adua International Leadership Conference and Awards on Monday in Abuja.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the conference was organised by Global Initiative for Leadership Success.

    Gown said for the nation to achieve sustainable development, both leaders and other citizens should be morally upright and address the most pressing needs of the society.

    Recalling his experience with Yar’Adua while he was the governor of Katsina state, Gowon said that Guinea worm would not have been eradicated without the rapid and apt response to governance by Yar’Adua

    He commended late Yar’Adua for setting up the Justice Muhammed Uwais Electoral Reforms meant to end to electoral malfeasance.

    Also speaking, the Chairman, Board of Trustees of the initiative, retired Maj.-Gen Abdullahi Mamman, said that the gathering was aimed at interrogating leadership issues with regards to the palace of morality and ethics in governance.

    Mamman, while describing the late President Yar’Adua, said, “His governance leadership qualities were sterling, profoundly mercurial, and legendary, noting that his administration grew the economy and stabilized the society.

    “His audacious, boldness and sincerity of acknowledging in his inaugural speech that the electoral process that brought him to power was flawed and pledged to take concrete steps and actions was enough proof of his honesty’’, he said.

    Gov. Hyacinth Alia of Benue urged Nigerians to support the state and federal government for smooth running of the government.

    Alia said that Yar’Adua was being celebrated because of his exploits in fighting corruption.

    He said that Yar’Adua was transparent and identified the clog in the wheel of the system, adding that he was also doing same since he assumed office.

    “Transparency, getting everyone along, ensuring that the system works formidably is about good governance which is my take away from his administration ” he said.

    Professor Mike Ikupolati, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Global Intellectual Consult, said promoting merit over tribalism was a trait of good governance.

    He said that strong governmental institution and public-private partnership was part of moral and ethical antidote to national development.

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    Ikupolati said that Nigeria had no problem with formulation of policies but the implementation of the formulated policies.

    He urged the government to change the process of appointing people into leadership position, saying that skill alone was not enough for selection of people into leadership position.

    Alhaji Majeed Dahiru, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of ORASCOM Properties Ltd. said, the absence of integrity-based political leadership has stunted the development of the country.

    NAN reports that some of the governors who were given award for good leadership are Alia, Bala Mohammed of Bauchi state, and Babagana Zulum of Borno.

    (NAN)

  • Gowon, 89, Victoria, 77, celebrate 55thwedding anniversary

    Gowon, 89, Victoria, 77, celebrate 55thwedding anniversary

    Former Military Head of State, Gen. Yakubu Gowon and his wife, Victoria, yesterday celebrated their 55th wedding anniversary with thanksgiving at St. Matthew’s Anglican Church, Maitama, Abuja.

    The couple exchanged vows on April 19, 1969, at the Anglican Cathedral Church of Christ, Marina, Lagos, during Gowon’s tenure as Nigeria’s Head of State.

    The wedding took place during the civil war, thereby creating controversy as to why the young military head of state will chose the period to marry his heartthrob.

    Gowon will be 90 in October and Victoria is 77.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that family members, friends and well-wishers gathered to join the celebrators  in commemorating the event.

    The couple presented the Holy Communion at the altar, during the service, which also marked the third Sunday after Easter in the Anglican Church’s liturgical calendar.

    During the service, Mrs Gowon read the Old Testament lesson from 1 Kings 17:17-24.

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    Venerable Tiwatope Elias-Fatile, Vicar of the parish,  congratulated them on their milestone anniversary, commending them for their dedicated service to the nation and the church.

    Elias-Fatile, who extolled their exemplary role as a couple within the Christian community, invoked blessings of physical and spiritual strength in all aspects of their lives.

    “I pray that the good Lord gives you physical and spiritual strength in every aspect of your lives.

    “In your position, you have become an adviser, mentor, counsellor to many families and I pray that the Holy Spirit will continue to inspire and use you to continue your good work for our country and many homes.”

    NAN recalls that Gowon was Nigeria’s Military Head of State from Aug. 1, 1966 to July 29, 1975.

  • Bayelsa, Rivers, Akwa Ibom, Cross River residents praise Gowon

    Bayelsa, Rivers, Akwa Ibom, Cross River residents praise Gowon

    • He’s our hero, say indigenes

    The coastal aborigines in Bayelsa, Rivers, Akwa Ibom, and Cross River states (BRAC) have praised former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, for creating the states.

    They described the ex-Head of State as their hero.

    BRAC said they would forever remain grateful to Gowon for carving out the BRAC states from defunct Eastern Region in line with the yearning and cries of their fathers and mothers.

    According to the BRAC states, Gowon is second to the Holy Spirit, by virtue of the respect they have for him.

    They said those asking the former Head of State to apologise for his role in the civil war should have a rethink.

    A statement by the General Coordinator of BRAC Coastal Aborigines, Doris McDaniels, in response to calls for Gowon to apologise over his role in the civil war, reads: “It has been brought to our attention the recent insults directed at Gen. Gowon by Igbo apex groups, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, and Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).

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    “We are deeply offended by their audacity in demanding an apology from Gen. Gowon for his divine role in leading Nigeria to a peaceful end of the war, and delivering the BRAC coastal areas and her people from the genocidal oppression of the Biafran soldiers, preventing further evacuation of the BRAC people from their ancestral homes of the oil rich coastal areas in anticipation of Biafra winning the war.” McDaniels, who also urged the Igbo groups to address the atrocities committed by Biafran soldiers against the people of BRAC states, added: “We are now known as BRAC: Bayelsa, Rivers, Akwa Ibom, and Cross River states. We believe the people talking about Gen. Gowon are not telling the truth. They should speak the truth and hold their warlord, Col. Chukwuemeka Ojukwu, responsible for starting a spontaneous, ill-prepared war with no strategy and planning, conscripting the BRAC states into his imaginary political Biafra Republic without their permission and consent.”

    “The Igbo groups know this to be true, but they have chosen to spread falsehood about Gen. Gowon’s peace mission to keep Nigeria united.

    “We earnestly ask Gen. Gowon to ignore and forgive the false perspective and fabricated version of the Nigerian civil war presented by the groups.

    “We assure him that the people of the BRAC states know the truth and appreciate the timely intervention of his leadership and his war generals and veteran federal troops to usher in peace…”