Former Nigerian Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon (rtd), has stated that the Nigerian Civil War—also known as the Biafran War—was not a personal decision but a painful action necessary to preserve the unity of the nation.
Gowon shared this reflection on Saturday, June 7, 2025, at 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 89-year-old former military leader described the conflict, which spanned from July 6, 1967, to January 15, 1970, as the most challenging period of his life. He emphasized that he was compelled by duty to lead Nigeria through the crisis, not out of hatred or personal motives.
“I always remember the civil war. It was the most difficult period of my life. 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. It was never a hatred against any people, I can assure you,” Gowon said.
He stressed that the war was aimed at safeguarding Nigeria’s territorial unity and was not directed against the people of the Eastern region, who had attempted to secede.
Reflecting on his leadership approach, Gowon said his decisions were shaped by a commitment to prayer, integrity, and the nation’s collective good.
“Everything I do is through prayers. I ask God to help me do the right thing, the way He thinks it should be done, with love and respect for all the people,” he added.
He also reiterated the well-known message of post-war reconciliation:
“That is why, at the end, what do we have to say? As they say: no victor, no vanquished.”
Since his departure from office in 1975, Gowon has remained a vocal advocate for national unity and peacebuilding. His latest remarks come amid renewed discussions on Biafra remembrance and the need for healing across Nigeria’s ethnic and regional divides.