Tribute to Yakubu Gowon: 90 Gun Salutes for the Praying General, by Novo Isioro

General Yakubu Gowon (GCFR, Ph.D.), Nigeria’s former Head of State (indeed the youngest to have ever ruled the largest black population in the world), is a revered Elder Statesman, an unrepentant nationalist, a devoted soldier, detailed administrator, patriot, reformer, compelling humanist, firm believer in the Christian Creed, and committed family man. One can go on describing this enigma of a man whose life has left an indelible mark on our country and the world at large. I consider it a great honour and privilege, to celebrate this nonagenarian who has a special place among the founding fathers of modern Nigeria.

As a younger generation of the Nigerian citizenry, I was able to read up a lot about General Gowon. I was also able to observe that he was more than a General in the army, or another Military Head of State. He was and still remains the rallying point for the political class, as well as the signpost of the very best of what our country is supposed to be, as his impactful leadership and contributions have continued to shape every aspect of our national discourse. With historical antecedents marked by both triumphs and challenges, General Gowon has continued to remain a testament to tenacity, humility, honesty and love for Nigeria and her people.

As a man who saw tomorrow, it is on record that General Yakubu Gowon, over half a century ago, envisioned a Nigeria of socio-cultural harmony and political inclusion, with the introduction of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Scheme established in 1973. This not only activated the spirit and movement of “One Nigeria” but also paved way for national integration and social harmony till this day. It also bears repeating here that 28 years ago, General Gowon inaugurated the Nigeria Prays project, through which he mobilized the entire citizenry to pray earnestly for the country, for “…by strength alone shall no man prevail.” (II Samuel 2:9b). Such is General Gowon’s firm belief and trust in the God that is able to do all things. He is a man of enormous faith!

Beyond his public roles and accomplishments General Gowon’s devotion to his family is unmatched. I remember how gracefully he accepted an invitation to speak at a National Peace Conference put together by my team on October 1, 2020. The joy I felt at his acceptance was simply indescribable, though there was yet another hurdle to be scaled, as I was filled with great anxiety, having received an invitation to his home for a formal briefing of the programme ahead. Thankfully, the initial anxiety disappeared as we were warmly received by the General and his amiable wife; Grandma (Mrs.) Victoria Gowon. As if that wasn’t enough, she brought out the matriarchal part of her by sending us back home with “T-Fare,” like most loving grandparents do. Then quickly I realized, that the kindness we received was not just for us, it represented a love so true for everything Nigeria, especially the Nigerian youths. That was a lesson I shall forever hold dear for the rest of my life.

On your birthday, General, we celebrate your old age and decades of continued service to our great country, Nigeria. As we celebrate this 90^th milestone of your beautiful life, it is my prayer that you shall be fulfilled in this phase of your life. And may we be reminded of the light you have bestowed upon us as a lifetime inspiration for a greater Nigeria. We thank God for your incredible life, and hope that you will feel the depth of the enormous love and respect that we have for you.

I consider it fitting to end this piece in the spirit of a popular quote from the great Winston Churchill: ‘This is not the end. It is not even the beginning of the end. But it is, perhaps, the end of the beginning.’ May you live long in good health and continued service as a signpost of one of the very best of our nation.

Novo Isioro is the Convener, History for Peace Conference, ANISZA Foundation