Former Minister of Defence, Theophilus Danjuma, on Tuesday led a wave of high-profile donations with a N3bn pledge at the public presentation of the autobiography of former Head of State, Yakubu Gowon, in Abuja.
Africa’s richest man and President of the Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote, also donated N500m in support of the book titled “My Life of Duty and Allegiance.”
The event, which drew top government officials, diplomats and military chiefs, had Vice President Kashim Shettima representing President Bola Tinubu.
Danjuma, who was the chief presenter, was represented by a former Chief of Defence Staff, Martin Luther Agwai. Beyond his cash donation, he directed that 12 copies of the autobiography be purchased for each of the 20 universities that have conferred honorary doctorates on Gowon.
In his tribute, Danjuma described Gowon as “Nigeria’s foremost living statesman” and a leader whose wartime role preserved the country’s unity.
He said, “Gen. Gowon is not only a household name in Nigeria but also a globally acknowledged leader with an impeccable record in leadership, nation-building and military strategy.
“His well-recorded slogan of ‘no victor, no vanquished’ after the civil war set the tone for reconciliation, reconstruction and rehabilitation.”
Danjuma further noted that his relationship with Gowon dates back over 70 years to their childhood in Zaria, describing the memoir as a “treasure trove of history.”
Representing Dangote at the event, his aide, Mansur Ahmed, said the business mogul purchased 25 copies of the book for N500m in honour of Gowon’s legacy.
Ahmed noted that Dangote was only 10 years old when Gowon led Nigeria through its civil war, adding that the stability achieved under his leadership provided the foundation for future economic growth.
Also lending support, Chairman of BUA Group, Abdul Samad Rabiu, bought copies worth N25m.
The book was reviewed by the Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Matthew Kukah, who highlighted its historical and leadership significance.
The 20-chapter autobiography chronicles Gowon’s life, military career and leadership during one of Nigeria’s most turbulent periods, offering insights into the country’s post-war reconciliation process.
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