By Nwamulunamma Ogbunka
Abuja
Former Minister of Defence, Retired Gen. Theophilus Danjuma, donated N3 billion on Tuesday in Abuja at the public presentation of the autobiography of former Head of State, Retired Gen. Yakubu Gowon. The event drew top government officials, military leaders, and members of the diplomatic corps.
The 20-chapter autobiography, titled, “My Life of Duty and Allegiance,” was unveiled at a ceremony attended by Vice President Kashim Shettima, who represented President Bola Tinubu. Other attendees included senior government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, and military top brass.
Danjuma, who served as Chief Presenter at the event, was represented by former Chief of Defence Staff, Retired Gen. Martin Luther Agwai. Beyond the financial pledge, Danjuma directed that 12 copies of the book be purchased and distributed to the libraries of each of the 20 universities that have awarded Gowon honorary doctorate degrees.
In his tribute, Danjuma described Gowon as Nigeria’s foremost living statesman, an international icon, and a wartime commander whose leadership prevented Nigeria from disintegrating. He said Gowon’s slogan of “no victor, no vanquished” after the civil war set the tone for effective post-war reconciliation, reconstruction, and rehabilitation.
The retired general noted that his friendship with Gowon spanned over 70 years, dating back to their childhood in Wusasa, Zaria. He called the memoir a “treasure trove of history” and a gift to the world, reflecting decades of service and leadership.
Alhaji Aliko Dangote, Chairman of the Dangote Group, also supported the book launch with a donation of N500 million. Represented by Senior Adviser Mansur Ahmed, Dangote purchased 25 copies of the book in honor of the former Head of State.
Ahmed said Dangote was only 10 years old when Gowon led Nigeria through its most turbulent period. He credited Gowon’s efforts to keep the country unified for creating the stable environment that allowed Dangote to grow up and build a pan-African business empire.
Other corporate leaders also made substantial purchases at the event. Alhaji Abdul-Samad Rabiu, President of BUA Group, bought copies of the book for N25 million. The book was reviewed by Bishop Mathew Kukah, Catholic Bishop of Sokoto and prominent author and social commentator.
