Former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon (rtd), on Saturday in Abuja said the Nigerian Civil War was never driven by hatred, but by a difficult necessity to preserve national unity.
Speaking at the 5th Convention of the Christian Men’s Fellowship (CMF) of the Diocese of Abuja, held at St. Matthew’s Anglican Church in Maitama, General Gowon spoke about the need for forgiveness, reconciliation, and unity among all Nigerians regardless of their ethnic or religious backgrounds.
He said, “I remember the most difficult period of my life. It was not my choice, but I had to be there—and had to do what I had to—to keep this country together.” He assured the audience that the war was never motivated by hatred against any tribe or people. “Apart from that, there is love and respect between us,” he added.
The 91-year-old former military ruler recalled some personal losses he suffered during the war, including the death of his close friend Major Arthur Unegbe, for whom he was the best man at his wedding.
Reflecting on his life after the war, Gowon noted that prayer has been central to his actions. “As far as this heart is concerned, everything that I do, it is through prayers. I ask God to help me to do the right thing the way He thinks it should be done, with the love and respect from all the people,” he said.
He concluded with a call for unity among Nigerians: “That is why, at the end, what do we have to say? As they say: no victor, no vanquished.” He also praised the progress the country has made since the war and urged citizens to continue supporting peace and harmony.
Alongside General Gowon, two other respected Nigerians were honoured at the CMF event: Dr. Christopher Kolade, a well-known diplomat and academic, and Owelle Gilbert Chikelu, a former top federal civil servant. Both were recognized for their dedication to the church and the nation.
The Primate of the Church of Nigeria, Archbishop Henry Ndukuba, encouraged Christian men to live with honesty and courage, stressing the importance of qualities such as heart, head, habit, and humility in godly living.
Mrs. Angela Ndukuba, President of the Mothers’ Union and Women’s Guild, praised the honourees as “men of courage” who have remained faithful in challenging times.
Prof. John-Kennedy Opara, speaking on behalf of former President Goodluck Jonathan, said these men have impacted many lives through their integrity.
Prof. Suleiman Bogoro, former TETFund executive secretary, noted that Gowon, the son of a clergy, showed great integrity and forgiveness by refusing to take advantage of Nigeria’s oil wealth during his time in power.
The convention gathered Christian men from across Abuja to discuss the theme, “Men of Honour: Living with Integrity in a Culture of Deceit,” based on Psalm 15:1-5, with Bishop Dapo Asaju delivering the main speech.
