‘I acted to keep Nigeria together, not out of hatred’ — Gowon

Former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon (rtd), has described the Nigerian Civil War (1967–1970) as the most trying and painful period of his life, stating that his decisions during the war were guided by a commitment to national unity rather than hatred.

Gowon made the remarks in Abuja on Saturday after receiving a Lifetime Integrity and Achievement Award at the 5th Convention of the Christian Men’s Fellowship of the Abuja Anglican Diocese. The event, themed “Men of Honour: Living with Integrity in a Culture of Deceit,” focused on the urgent need for moral leadership in Nigeria.

“I always remember the civil war. It was the most difficult period of my life,” Gowon said. “It was not my choice, but I had to be there, and had to do what I did to keep this country together. It was never out of hatred against any group of people.”

Reflecting on his leadership years, the former military leader said his actions have consistently been driven by prayer, compassion, and a commitment to doing what is right. “As far as this heart is concerned, everything that I do is through prayers. 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,” he said, echoing his famous post-war declaration: “No victor, no vanquished.”

Gowon commended Nigeria’s progress since the civil war and called for greater efforts toward national reconciliation, unity, and mutual respect among citizens.

Former President Goodluck Jonathan, represented by Dr. John-Kennedy Opara, praised the honourees for their enduring commitment to integrity and national service. Quoting Psalm 25:14, he urged men to uphold truth and righteousness.

The Primate of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), Archbishop Henry Ndukuba, stressed the importance of truth, integrity, and moral courage among Christian men. He warned that evil thrives when good people fail to take a stand and urged Christians to be unapologetically righteous in all spheres of life.

“God is still in search of men and women of honour and integrity,” Ndukuba said, highlighting four core virtues—Heart, Head, Habit, and Humility—as critical to moral leadership.

President of the Christian Men’s Fellowship, Mr. Isaac Chukwudi, said the theme of the convention was inspired by the evident decline in moral values both in the home and government. “We need to build integrity from the home. These are the men to inspire the leaders who will better Nigeria’s future,” he said.

Alongside Gowon, two other nonagenarians—Dr. Christopher Kolade, former Nigerian High Commissioner to the UK, and Owelle Gilbert Chikelu, former Minister and banker—were honoured for their exemplary service to the nation and the church.