Former Nigerian Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, has opened up about the Biafra civil war, describing it as the most difficult period of his life and emphasizing that it was never his choice to engage in the conflict.
Gowon led Nigeria through the three-year civil war that lasted from July 6, 1967, to January 15, 1970. Speaking during the 5th Convention of the Christian Men’s Fellowship of the Abuja Anglican Diocese, where he was honored with a Lifetime Integrity and Achievement Award, the former military ruler offered a deeply personal account of the war and its emotional toll.
“I always remember the civil war. It was the most difficult period of my life,” he said.
He firmly stated that his decision to prosecute the war was not driven by hatred, but by the pressing need to preserve national unity at a critical juncture in Nigeria’s history.
“It was not my choice, but I had to be there, and had to do what I did in order to keep this country together,” Gowon explained.
“It was never a hatred against any people, I can assure you.”
Gowon, now in his late 80s, also used the platform to urge forgiveness, reconciliation, and unity across ethnic and religious lines, reaffirming that his leadership was always rooted in faith and integrity.
“As far as this heart is concerned, everything that I do, it is through prayers,” he said.
“I ask God to help me to do the right thing the way He thinks it should be done, with love and respect for all the people.”
Recalling the nation’s motto after the civil war, Gowon concluded:
“That is why at the end, what do we have to say? As they say: no victor, no vanquished.”
His remarks come as Nigeria continues to grapple with its history and search for lasting peace and national cohesion.
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