I’m Eager to Read Gowon’s Memoir — Obasanjo

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has expressed his desire to obtain and read the newly released memoir of former Military Head of State, Yakubu Gowon, titled My Life of Duty and Allegiance, describing it as an important addition to Nigeria’s historical record.

Obasanjo also explained his absence from the public presentation of the memoir, which was unveiled in Abuja on May 19. The autobiography chronicles Gowon’s life, military career, and contributions to Nigeria’s socio-economic development during his time in office.

According to a statement issued on Friday by Obasanjo’s Special Assistant on Media, Kehinde Akinyemi, the former president made the remarks while responding to questions from journalists during a visit to his residence.

When asked whether he had read the book, Obasanjo said he was yet to obtain a copy but was looking forward to doing so.

“I am anxious to get a copy,” he stated.

Obasanjo described Gowon as a leader whose public service coincided with some of the most defining and turbulent periods in Nigeria’s history. He noted that Gowon’s experiences and perspectives would provide valuable insight into events that shaped the nation after independence.

Gowon, now 91, served as Nigeria’s Head of State between August 1966 and July 1975, overseeing the country during a critical period that included the Nigerian Civil War and post-war reconstruction efforts.

Obasanjo, who served as Chief of Staff, Supreme Headquarters, under the military administration of the late General Murtala Muhammed after the overthrow of Gowon’s government in 1975, acknowledged the significance of Gowon’s place in Nigeria’s political history.

The former president said Gowon’s life story spans one of the most eventful eras in the nation’s development and would be of interest to Nigerians seeking a deeper understanding of the country’s past.

The memoir is expected to offer firsthand accounts of major political and military events that shaped Nigeria during Gowon’s administration.