By Chibuike Nkwede
Former President Goodluck Jonathan has commended former Head of State Yakubu Gowon, stating that several policies introduced during Gowon’s military administration continue to play significant roles in Nigeria’s national development.
Jonathan made the remarks on Tuesday in Abuja during the public presentation of Gowon’s autobiography titled My Life of Duty and Allegiance.
He described Gowon as a courageous leader who assumed office at a critical and turbulent period in Nigeria’s history, and successfully led the country through the civil war, a phase he said tested the very foundation of national unity.
According to him, true leadership is most evident in times of crisis, noting that Gowon’s stewardship during the war period demonstrated uncommon resilience and commitment to keeping Nigeria united. He referenced Gowon’s post-war message of “no victor, no vanquished,” describing it as a defining philosophy that helped lay the groundwork for reconciliation, healing, and reintegration.
Jonathan said Gowon’s legacy extends beyond wartime leadership to include landmark policy decisions and institutional reforms that continue to influence governance in Nigeria today.
He particularly highlighted the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), established in 1973, describing it as one of the most enduring nation-building initiatives in the country’s history. He noted that the scheme was designed to promote unity by exposing young Nigerians to different cultures and regions across the federation.
While acknowledging that the vision of the scheme has not been fully realised, Jonathan observed that it remains a bold and forward-looking policy aimed at fostering national cohesion.
He also recalled his personal experience with the scheme, noting that two NYSC members posted to his secondary school in 1973 contributed significantly to his academic foundation, especially in science subjects.
Jonathan further commended Gowon’s role in the formation of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), describing it as another enduring contribution that has strengthened regional cooperation and integration in West Africa.
He stressed the importance of leaders documenting their experiences, saying memoirs provide valuable insight into governance and help preserve institutional memory for future generations.
The former president also praised Gowon’s continued involvement in peace-building and humanitarian efforts after leaving office, noting that such engagements demonstrate that leadership extends beyond political authority.
Jonathan added that the lessons contained in Gowon’s life story are particularly relevant at a time when many nations are grappling with division, insecurity, and political polarization.
He concluded by noting that the autobiography offers important lessons in patience, dialogue, restraint, and reconciliation, while also hinting that he may document his own experiences in the future.