Jonathan praises Gowon, says his policies still relevant in Nigeria

Former President Goodluck Jonathan has commended former Head of State, Yakubu Gowon, describing many of the policies introduced during his administration as still highly relevant to Nigeria’s development.

Jonathan made the remarks on Tuesday in Abuja while chairing the public presentation of Gowon’s autobiography, My Life of Duty and Allegiance.

He said Gowon’s leadership during one of Nigeria’s most turbulent periods, particularly the Civil War, reflected courage, restraint and a deep commitment to national unity.

“General Gowon, at a very young age, led this country through a major civil war whose effects are still with us today… yet he remained committed to preserving national unity,” Jonathan said, referencing Gowon’s famous declaration of “No victor, no vanquished.”

According to him, that philosophy laid the foundation for reconciliation, healing and post-war reconstruction in Nigeria.

Jonathan also noted that Gowon’s administration introduced several enduring institutions and policies, including the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), which he described as one of the most important tools for national integration.

He explained that the NYSC was designed to foster unity by exposing young Nigerians to different parts of the country, although he observed that the vision has not been fully realised.

The former president further recalled how two NYSC teachers posted to his secondary school in 1973 contributed significantly to his academic development.

Jonathan also praised Gowon’s role in the establishment of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), describing it as a landmark achievement that continues to promote regional cooperation.

“These are policies that will continue to reform society. These are policies that will endure,” he said.

He added that Gowon’s decision to document his experiences through an autobiography was valuable for national memory, especially at a time of global political tension and division.

Jonathan further lauded Gowon’s post-military peace efforts, noting that his continued involvement in reconciliation initiatives demonstrates that leadership extends beyond holding political office.