On Tuesday, Retired Gen. Theophilus Danjuma, former Minister of Defence, donated N3 billion during the public presentation of the autobiography of former Head of State, Retired Gen. Yakubu Gowon, in Abuja.
The 20-chapter book, titled “My Life of Duty and Allegiance”, was unveiled at a high-profile event attended by Vice President Kashim Shettima , who represented President Bola Tinubu, alongside top government officials, diplomats, and military leaders.
According to Dailytrust, Alhaji Aliko Dangote , Chairman of the Dangote Group, also made a significant contribution of N500 million. His representative, Mr Mansur Ahmed, announced the purchase of 25 copies of the book, noting that Dangote was only a 10-year-old pupil when Gowon was guiding Nigeria through its most turbulent times.
Ahmed explained that Gowon’s leadership in keeping Nigeria united created the environment that later allowed Dangote to build his pan-African business empire.
Serving as Chief Presenter, Danjuma was represented by Retired Gen. Martin Luther Agwai. Beyond his financial pledge, Danjuma directed that 12 copies of the autobiography be distributed to the libraries of each of the 20 universities that had awarded Gowon honorary doctorate degrees.
In his tribute, Danjuma described Gowon as:
“Nigeria’s foremost living statesman, an international icon, and a wartime commander whose leadership prevented Nigeria from disintegration.”
He highlighted Gowon’s famous slogan of “no victor, no vanquished” after the civil war, which set the tone for reconciliation, reconstruction, and rehabilitation. Danjuma also reflected on their friendship spanning over 70 years, calling the memoir a “treasure trove of history” and a gift to the world.
The event also saw contributions from other business leaders. Alhaji Abdul-Samad Rabiu, President of BUA Group, purchased copies of the book worth N25 million. The book was reviewed by Bishop Mathew Kukah, Catholic Bishop of Sokoto, who praised Gowon’s life story as a valuable historical record.
The autobiography captures Gowon’s journey as a leader, soldier, and statesman. It reflects on his role in nation-building and his enduring influence on Nigeria’s unity. The strong turnout of dignitaries and the substantial donations underline the respect Gowon commands across political, military, and business circles.
Gowon, who ruled Nigeria from July 1966 to July 1975, presented his memoir, ‘My Life of Duty and Allegiance’, in Abuja today, Tuesday, May 19, 2026. Legit.ng recalls that in the January 1966 coup executed by officers mostly of Igbo origin, key northern leaders and military officers were killed.