Jonathan Lauds Gowon for Civil War Reconciliation, Nation-Building

Former President Goodluck Jonathan has commended Nigeria’s former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, for his leadership during and after the Nigerian Civil War, saying his “no victor, no vanquished” declaration played a key role in national healing and reconciliation.

Jonathan made the remarks on Tuesday in Abuja at the public presentation of Gowon’s autobiography, describing the event as more than a book launch, but a reflection of a leader’s legacy in nation-building and statesmanship.

“Today’s event is not merely the unveiling of a book. It is the presentation of a living testimony. It is a reflection of a leader who stood at the centre of some of the defining moments in our national journey,” Jonathan said.

He noted that the autobiography provides deep insights into military leadership, governance challenges, peacebuilding, and the complexities of managing a diverse nation such as Nigeria.

Jonathan described the 1967–1970 civil war as one of the darkest and most painful periods in the country’s history, but said Gowon’s post-war reconciliation efforts helped prevent further division.

“The years of the civil war remain among the most painful chapters of our national experience. Yet the declaration of ‘no victor, no vanquished’ laid the foundation for healing, reconstruction and reintegration at a time when the nation was deeply wounded,” he said.

The former president also praised Gowon’s role in establishing the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), describing it as one of the most impactful nation-building initiatives in Nigeria’s history.

He recalled that the scheme was introduced to promote unity among young Nigerians and address manpower shortages in schools, particularly in rural communities.

Jonathan shared a personal experience, noting that corps members once taught him key subjects during his secondary school education in the 1970s, an experience he said shaped his academic journey.

“So the vision of the NYSC is great and will continue to be great,” he said.

He further commended Gowon’s continued commitment to peace, unity, and youth development long after leaving office, describing his post-leadership contributions as remarkable.

Jonathan added that memoirs such as Gowon’s autobiography are essential for preserving historical records and helping younger generations understand the realities and responsibilities of leadership during critical national moments.

“By sharing his stories, General Gowon has once again rendered another important service to Nigeria and Africa’s historical record,” he said.