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General Yakubu Gowon @90: “To Keep Nigeria One Is a Task That Must Be Done”…
General Yakubu Gowon @90: “To Keep Nigeria One Is a Task That Must Be Done”…..DARE ADELEKAN
As General Yakubu Gowon celebrates his 90th birthday, it is essential to reflect on his enduring legacy and the historical significance of his famous statement, “To keep Nigeria one is a task that must be done.” These words, spoken during one of Nigeria’s most turbulent periods, continue to resonate profoundly in the country’s political landscape and its national consciousness.
1. Leadership During Crisis: The Nigerian Civil War (1967–1970)
Gowon became the Head of State in 1966, at the young age of 31, following a series of political crises and coups that threatened to tear Nigeria apart. His ascension to power coincided with rising ethnic tensions, culminating in the secession of the Eastern Region, which declared itself the independent state of Biafra in 1967.
The ensuing Nigerian Civil War, also known as the Biafran War, was one of the darkest chapters in Nigeria’s history. It was a brutal conflict, marked by immense human suffering, widespread famine, and significant loss of life. Throughout the war, Gowon’s leadership was defined by his unwavering belief in Nigeria’s unity. His administration’s commitment to preserving the territorial integrity of the country was reflected in his rallying cry, “To keep Nigeria one is a task that must be done.”
This statement became more than a slogan; it was a call to action that guided the federal government’s strategy throughout the war. The belief that Nigeria’s unity was non-negotiable shaped Gowon’s policies, including the eventual military victory over Biafra and the reintegration of the secessionist region into the Nigerian state in 1970. The end of the civil war was marked by Gowon’s declaration of “No victor, no vanquished,” signaling his intent to promote reconciliation and national healing.
2. The Burden of National Unity
For Gowon, preserving Nigeria’s unity was not just a political goal but a moral imperative. He recognized the diversity of Nigeria’s ethnic, religious, and regional composition and understood that the country’s strength lay in its ability to maintain unity amid such complexity.
The post-war period was dedicated to reconstruction, rebuilding infrastructure, and fostering a sense of national identity. Gowon’s government initiated the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) in 1973, a program aimed at promoting national integration by encouraging Nigerian youth to serve in regions other than their own. This initiative remains one of his most enduring legacies, as it continues to foster cross-cultural understanding and unity among Nigeria’s youth today.
3. Challenges and Achievements
Gowon’s tenure as Head of State saw both successes and challenges. On the economic front, the oil boom of the 1970s provided Nigeria with unprecedented revenues, which his administration used to fund ambitious infrastructure projects. His government implemented the Second National Development Plan (1970-1974), focusing on rehabilitating war-torn areas, expanding education, and modernizing Nigeria’s economy.
However, his leadership also faced criticism for corruption, economic mismanagement, and delayed transitions to civilian rule. Despite his earlier promise to return power to civilians in 1976, Gowon postponed the transition, leading to growing discontent within the military and among the populace. In 1975, he was overthrown in a bloodless coup while attending the Organization of African Unity (OAU) summit in Uganda.
4. Statesmanship in Retirement
Despite the sudden end to his regime, Gowon has remained a respected elder statesman. Over the years, he has dedicated his life to peacebuilding and humanitarian efforts, becoming an ambassador for national unity. His work with the Yakubu Gowon Centre for National Unity and International Cooperation, established in 1992, reflects his lifelong commitment to the cause of peace, unity, and reconciliation.
At 90, Gowon continues to be a symbol of Nigeria’s enduring quest for unity. His belief in a united Nigeria, expressed through his leadership during the civil war and his post-retirement efforts, has inspired subsequent generations of leaders to prioritize the country’s unity in the face of challenges.
5. Gowon’s Legacy: A Reflection on Nigeria’s Present and Future
Gowon’s famous mantra, “To keep Nigeria one is a task that must be done,” remains as relevant today as it was during the civil war. Nigeria, with its complex ethnic, religious, and regional divides, continues to grapple with issues of national unity. Ethnic tensions, insurgencies, and separatist movements, like those in the Northeast and Southeast, challenge the fabric of Nigeria’s nationhood.
As Nigeria navigates its modern political challenges, the legacy of Gowon’s leadership provides critical lessons. His focus on dialogue, reconciliation, and nation-building remains a guiding principle for addressing the country’s current divisions. His belief in unity, despite diversity, speaks to the ongoing task of fostering inclusion, justice, and equity across all of Nigeria’s regions.
6. Conclusion: A Legacy of National Unity
At 90, General Yakubu Gowon stands as a living testament to the power of leadership in times of national crisis. His unwavering commitment to Nigeria’s unity during the civil war and his post-leadership efforts in peacebuilding solidify his place in history as one of Nigeria’s most significant leaders.
As Nigeria looks to the future, the task of keeping the nation united continues to rest on the shoulders of its leaders and citizens alike. Gowon’s legacy challenges Nigerians to uphold the principle that “To keep Nigeria one is a task that must be done”, recognizing that national unity is not merely a goal but an ongoing responsibilities
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Accolades to Empress Genevieve Wining as she Celebrate birthday in Grand style
Accolades to Empress Genevieve Wining as she Celebrate birthday in Grand style
Emmanuel Clement
Vilnius, Lithuania – The Grand Hotel Vilnius will host a grand birthday celebration in honor of Her Majesty The Empress Genevieve Wining of the United Kingdom of Atlantis (UKA) on April 4th, 2026.
The four-day event promises to be an extravagant affair, marking the special birthday of Empress Genevieve Wining. The celebration will take place at the prestigious Grand Hotel Vilnius, Lithuania, renowned for its luxurious ambiance and exceptional service.
According to the event flyer, the birthday celebration will be a spectacular occasion, fitting for an empress. Guests can expect an elegant setting adorned with golden accents, sparkling champagne, and festive decorations, creating a regal atmosphere befitting the occasion.
The Empress Genevieve Wining of UKA is expected to grace the event, which will include various festivities and celebrations in her honor. The occasion aims to bring together dignitaries, followers, and guests to commemorate the empress’s birthday with grandeur and joy.
For media inquiries, accreditation, or further information about the birthday celebration of The Empress Genevieve Wining of UKA, please contact the event organizers.
Courtesy of His Excellency Emperor Prof. Solomon Wining. UKA
Democratic Accountability in Focus as NGIJ Courts NILDS for Strategic Collaboration
The Nigerian Guild of Investigative Journalists (NGIJ) has sought a strategic partnership with the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS) to enhance legislative reporting, strengthen democratic accountability, and promote evidence-based journalism in Nigeria.
The proposal was made during a courtesy visit by the NGIJ delegation, led by its President, Mallam Abdulrahman Aliagan, to the Institute’s headquarters in Abuja.
The Director-General of NILDS, Professor Abubakar O. Suleiman, was represented at the meeting by the Director of Legal Services, Professor Ibrahim Danwanka. Also in attendance were the Special Adviser to the DG on Media, Mr. Muhammad Abdulkadir and the Director of Information, Mr. Emmanuel Atakpo.
Speaking during the visit, Aliagan described the engagement as a strategic step toward building synergy between investigative journalism and legislative research institutions. He commended the leadership of Professor Suleiman for transforming NILDS into a leading centre for legislative studies and democratic governance in Africa.
“This visit is not merely ceremonial—it is deeply strategic. NGIJ and NILDS share a common vision of strengthening democracy, promoting accountability, and deepening good governance in Nigeria,” Aliagan said.
He explained that while NILDS advances democratic governance through research and legislative capacity development, NGIJ complements these efforts through investigative journalism and public-interest reporting.
Aliagan highlighted the Guild’s activities across the country, particularly its Governance Assessment Visits conducted in Kogi, Bayelsa, Ondo, Kwara, Osun, and Kaduna states, noting that such engagements have improved public discourse and strengthened accountability at the subnational level.
“Our mission is to promote ethical investigative journalism, strengthen transparency in governance, and build capacity for data-driven reporting that connects citizens with democratic institutions,” he said.
The NGIJ President also proposed collaboration in areas such as training on legislative processes, joint research and publications, policy dialogues, data sharing, and fellowship programmes for journalists and researchers.
He further informed the Institute of the Guild’s plan to host the Dele Giwa Memorial Annual Lecture on Investigative Journalism in June as part of activities marking Democracy Day. The Guild requested that Professor Suleiman serve as keynote speaker and sought approval to use NILDS’ auditorium for the event.
“We are confident that your presence and intellectual contribution will greatly enrich the discourse and lend national significance to the event,” Aliagan added.
Responding on behalf of the Director-General, Professor Danwanka welcomed the proposal and described the initiative as timely and beneficial to national development. He commended NGIJ for its commitment to accountability journalism and its recognition of the Institute’s growing impact.
“If there is any institution journalists need to collaborate with, it is NILDS.
Legislative reporting requires specialised knowledge that many journalists currently lack,” Danwanka said.
He explained that NILDS was established by an Act of Parliament in 2011 and later expanded in 2017 to include broader responsibilities covering democratic institutions and civil society organisations.
According to him, the Institute has grown significantly under Professor Suleiman’s leadership, expanding from four departments to eleven, with increased staff strength and wider national, regional, and continental visibility.
Danwanka noted that NILDS currently provides research and capacity-building support not only to Nigeria’s legislature but also to parliaments across West Africa and other parts of the continent, including Kenya, Zimbabwe, Malawi, Ghana, and Togo.
“Legislature is a specialised field. Even experts from other disciplines must acquire knowledge of its processes to report it accurately. That is where NILDS comes in,” he said.
He assured the NGIJ delegation that all requests presented during the visit, including collaboration proposals, the use of the Institute’s facilities, and the invitation to the DG would be communicated for necessary action.
Danwanka also acknowledged NGIJ’s commendation of the appointment of Mr. Abdulkadir as Special Adviser on Media, describing the recognition as thoughtful and well-deserved.
The meeting ended with both parties expressing optimism about establishing a formal framework for collaboration, with a shared commitment to strengthening democratic institutions and improving governance through knowledge-driven journalism.
“This engagement marks the beginning of a sustainable partnership that will advance legislative excellence and investigative journalism in Nigeria,” Danwanka said.
GOVERNMENT MUST TACKLE NATION’S PRESSING CHALLENGES — BISHOP MARTINS URGES AT CHRISM MASS
By Ifeoma Ikem
The Holy Cross Cathedral, Lagos, was filled with joy, reverence, and renewed commitment on Holy Thursday as Catholic faithful across the metropolis gathered for the annual Chrism Mass — a solemn celebration marking the institution of the priesthood, the Holy Eucharist, and the blessing of sacred oils used throughout the liturgical year.
During the ceremony, the Catholic Archbishop of Lagos, Most Rev. Adewale Martins, described the Chrism Mass as a profound moment in the life of the Church.
He noted that it offers priests an opportunity to renew their vows and reflect on the centrality of the Eucharist, which he emphasized remains the heartbeat of the Catholic faith.
Addressing national issues, Bishop Martins acknowledged the government’s ongoing efforts to tackle Nigeria’s current challenges.
However, he stressed the need for more decisive and accelerated interventions, particularly in securing lives and easing the economic burdens confronting citizens.
He congratulated priests on their feast day and reflected on the rising influence of digital evangelization. While recognizing that many people now “inhabit online spaces,” he warned clergymen to handle social media with caution, discipline, and fidelity to Church teachings. According to him, digital influence must never overshadow spiritual integrity.
“The oils blessed today are not simply symbols; they speak of being set apart by a mark not earned, not crafted, but given,” he said. “As we renew our promises, we do not recreate ordination; we awaken memory. We were not ordained to build profiles but to bear Christ.”
He further noted that the digital world has become a place where people “gather, argue, celebrate, confess, misunderstand, and sometimes encounter truth.” For this reason, he said the Church recognizes the need to take the Gospel into that space without compromising its authenticity.
In his homily, Rev. Fr. Paul Akin-Otiko, Chaplain of St. Thomas More Catholic Chaplaincy, University of Lagos, emphasized the enduring significance of the Chrism Mass as an ancient tradition where sacred oils are consecrated.
He urged priests to pray fervently for the sick using the blessed oils, reminding them that true healing comes from God.
Fr. Akin-Otiko encouraged clergy to remain selfless, warning them never to turn the Church into a source of personal gain.
He stressed that their primary duty is the salvation of souls and the welfare of the people entrusted to them.
Monsignor John Aniagwu took a moment to appreciate Anthony Cardinal Olubunmi Okogie for his fatherly guidance and exemplary leadership. He prayed for God’s continued blessings, asking that all present be granted good health to witness many more Chrism Masses.
The highlight of the ceremony was the renewal of vows by hundreds of priests, who reaffirmed their commitment to lives of dedication, chastity, and obedience to the Church and their bishop — an act that drew heartfelt applause from the congregation.
The celebration concluded with songs of thanksgiving, joy, and renewed devotion.
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