Former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, has revealed that his upcoming autobiography seeks to explain the difficult choices made by his administration.
The retired General spoke in Abuja ahead of the official public presentation scheduled for Tuesday, May 19, 2026. The event will hold at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre.
This book launch is expected to be a major gathering for the Nigerian elite. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will attend as the special guest of honour.
Meanwhile, a former Minister of Defence, Lt.-Gen. Theophilus Danjuma (retd.), will officially unveil the memoir. Military veterans, diplomats, and top officials are all expected at the venue.
The 881-page book, published by Havilah Group, offers an in-depth look at Gowon’s personal life and military career. It specifically focuses on the turbulent years between 1967 and 1970.
Clarifying the Backstory of a Turbulent Era
Gowon explained that he wrote this memoir to offer a personal perspective on events often described by others. He believes the public deserves to know his motivations.
He stated: “By choosing to write, I took a conscious decision not to reopen old wounds but to clarify my thinking on policies and plans at a period often narrated by others.”
The former leader was clear that his goal is not to cause fresh pain. Instead, he wants to evaluate the reality of the crossroads he faced while in office.
He added: “My story is one of conviction evaluated by circumstances at the crossroads of expectations and reality.”
General Gowon became Nigeria’s leader at just 31 years old on August 1, 1966, following the bloody coup which ousted former Head of State, Gen. Thompson Aguiyi-Ironsi earlier on May 29.
He remained in power for nine years before he was removed from office in 1975. After his exit, he pursued an academic path at the University of Warwick in England.
Preserving History and Promoting National Peace
The CEO of Havilah Group, Lanre Adesuyi, described the project as a significant milestone for the nation. He believes the book helps preserve essential parts of Nigeria’s journey.
Adesuyi stated: “We consider this project a significant milestone in our journey, one that reflects our commitment to preserving history, promoting thought leadership, and contributing meaningfully to national discourse.”
In recent decades, General Gowon has focused on humanitarian work. He is widely known for the “Nigeria Prays” movement and his campaigns against diseases like guinea worm and malaria.
He also serves as the National Goodwill Ambassador for viral hepatitis control. His autobiography is expected to spark new discussions on national unity and leadership.
As a historical document, the memoir covers his transition from a young soldier to a statesman.
It provides a rare look into the mind of the man who led Nigeria through its darkest hour.
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